How to Be International Airline Ticketing Agent - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 18, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

The growth of international air travel has caused a demand for experienced international airline ticketing agents to increase. These agents are responsible for handling customer inquiries, providing flight details, and issuing tickets. They must possess excellent communication skills, be knowledgeable of aviation regulations, and have a strong understanding of the airline industry.

Their expertise is invaluable in ensuring that customers have a pleasant experience and that their tickets are accurate and secure. As a result, the demand for these agents has grown, driving up the salaries for skilled professionals in this field.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require airline ticketing agents to have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Consider formal training from a travel school or college. Depending on the job you are applying for, some employers may require or prefer an associate or bachelors degree in travel and tourism, hospitality, or a related field.
Train on the job. While many employers prefer to hire agents with some knowledge of the airline industry, most airlines offer on-the-job training for new ticketing agents.
Obtain a travel agent license. Depending on the state in which you work, you may be required to have a travel agent license or certificate in order to be an airline ticketing agent.
Become familiar with airline software and systems. Many airlines require ticketing agents to be proficient in their proprietary software systems and policies.
Become familiar with federal regulations and industry standards. Airline ticketing agents must be knowledgeable of the various regulations that apply to the airline industry, including the Department of Transportations rules and regulations.

The job of an international airline ticketing agent requires a high level of competence and efficiency in order to ensure the efficient and safe transportation of passengers. This can be complicated due to the complexity of the global airline industry and its ever-changing regulations. To be successful, an ideal ticketing agent must have an excellent understanding of airline regulations and policies, as well as a comprehensive knowledge of passenger ticketing.

They must also possess strong customer service skills, including the ability to effectively handle customer complaints and provide prompt responses to inquiries. Furthermore, the ability to effectively manage multiple tasks simultaneously is essential for any successful ticketing agent. By having these skills and qualifications, an individual can become an ideal and competent international airline ticketing agent.

You may want to check Air Travel Agent, Leisure Travel Agent, and Cruise Travel Agent for alternative.

Job Description

Greet customers, answer inquiries, and provide information about flights and services
Assist customers with booking and purchasing tickets
Check customers in for flights and ensure they have proper documentation
Answer customers questions about travel policies and regulations
Resolve customer complaints and handle refunds
Coordinate with other departments to ensure customer satisfaction
Maintain ticketing system and process payments
Keep records of ticket sales and other transactions
Monitor flight schedules and adjust reservations as needed
Respond to emergency situations and coordinate with relevant authorities

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of air travel regulations, policies and procedures.
Ability to handle customer inquiries and bookings quickly and efficiently.
Outstanding customer service skills.
Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Computer proficiency, including booking systems and other airline software programs.
Knowledge of various airline carrier systems, schedules, and fares.
Understanding of airline safety and security regulations.
Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks accordingly.

Being an international airline ticketing agent requires strong organizational and problem-solving skills. The ability to multi-task and maintain accuracy when dealing with multiple customers is paramount. Good customer service skills are also essential as agents are often working with customers from different cultures and backgrounds.

In addition, agents must have a good understanding of the airline industry and its related regulations. They must be able to research flights and find the best deals for their customers, while also being aware of any restrictions or fees that may be associated with certain flights. Along with this, they must be able to use computer software and websites to book tickets, process payments, and provide customers with up-to-date information.

Finally, they must stay abreast of any changes in policies or regulations that may affect their customers travel plans. With these skills, an international airline ticketing agent can provide customers with a pleasant and stress-free experience.

Online Travel Consultant, Travel Coordinator, and Business Travel Consultant are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with the service they have received?
How do you ensure customer satisfaction?
What experience do you have with international ticketing systems and procedures?
How do you ensure accuracy when dealing with customer bookings?
How do you handle difficult customer queries?
Describe a time when you had to deal with a customers complaint?
What do you do to stay up to date on the latest airline regulations and policies?
How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple customer requests?
Explain the process of booking an international flight?
What challenges do you anticipate when working in an international airline ticketing role?

Common Tools in Industry

GDS System. A Global Distribution System (GDS) is a computerized network used to store and distribute travel-related information such as flight schedules, seat availability, hotel reservations and car rentals. (eg: Sabre)
Ticketing Software. Ticketing software is a computer system used to issue tickets for airlines, buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation. (eg: Amadeus)
Reservation System. A reservation system is a computerized system used to manage and track reservations for restaurants, hotels, and other services. (eg: OpenTable)
Back Office Software. Back office software is a suite of computer applications and systems used by airline ticketing agents to manage customer accounts, process payments, schedule flights, and generate reports. (eg: Travelport)
Online Booking System. An online booking system is a web-based platform that enables customers to book flights, hotels, and other travel services. (eg: Expedia)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Air Transport Association (IATA)
International Association of Exposition Managers (IAEM)
International Association of Airport Executives (IAAE)
Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX)
International Flight Services Association (IFSA)
Society of Professional Travel Agents (SPTA)
International Air Transport Association Training (IATA Training)
National Business Travel Association (NBTA)
Corporate Travel Management Association (CTMA)
Airports Council International (ACI)

We also have Domestic Airfare & Ticketing Agent, Tour Operator & Destination Management Professional, and Airline Ticketing Agent jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Airport. A facility that serves as a hub for commercial aviation, providing passengers with flights to and from destinations around the world.
Airline. A company that operates scheduled flights between airports.
Flight. A scheduled trip between two or more airports, usually operated by an airline.
Ticket. A document issued by an airline, allowing a passenger to travel on an aircraft.
Reservation. A booking made with an airline for a specific flight.
Scheduling. The process of creating a flight schedule for an airline's operations.
Fare. A price charged for a flight, usually determined by the airline and based on factors such as distance and route taken.
Baggage. Personal items or luggage that are taken on board an aircraft by a passenger.
Check-in. The process of presenting oneself and baggage at an airport prior to a flight.
Security. Measures taken to ensure passengers and their belongings remain safe during a flight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are needed to become an International Airline Ticketing Agent?

To become an International Airline Ticketing Agent, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and be able to pass a background check. Additionally, it is helpful to have knowledge of computer software, customer service skills, and foreign languages.

What is the job outlook for International Airline Ticketing Agents?

The job outlook for International Airline Ticketing Agents is expected to grow by 7% between 2019 and 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

What tasks do International Airline Ticketing Agents typically perform?

International Airline Ticketing Agents typically perform tasks such as assisting customers with ticket purchases, helping passengers check in, providing information on flight schedules, creating reservations, and processing payments.

How much do International Airline Ticketing Agents typically earn?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for International Airline Ticketing Agents was $36,460 in May 2019.

What type of environment do International Airline Ticketing Agents typically work in?

International Airline Ticketing Agents typically work in airports, ticket offices, and other travel-related locations. They may also work in call centers or from home.