Can a TA book just airline ressies?

[AuroraluvsPhillip]

Is this a possibility?
I'm worried that I won't be accessing my computer when the all important April school vacation flights open up at Southwest. If I don't get nonstop round trip flights, the trip will have to be scratched. I also need to fly on Saturday, no flexibility on dates, which will be the most popular flights. I'm worried that in a few hours, all the flights will be booked. Hey, it's not my fault that I don't have computer access at work (except at lunchtime)
Do you think I could get a TA to do this for me if I give all the necessary details?

 

[CarolMN]

Sure. However, I'm not sure if/how SWA compensates TAs. Believe SWA relies mostly on online booking. Your TA may charge you for the service.

Best wishes -

 

[CarolA]

As I recall, SW does NOT compensate TAs so you will probably have to pay. I would make VERY sure you TA actually checks SW (they don't show up on a lot of booking engines)

 

[Lewisc]

If you don't care about getting an internet fare you could just call the 800 and book from work. Unless you have a relationship with a TA you may have trouble find one that will just book a SW reservation for you.

Another option would be to give your credit card information to a friend or relative and ask them to book for you. Make sure they know what times/fares you're looking for. Do you want an exact flight (earliest non-stop) or do you want them to look for later and/or connecting flights if the fares are better.

 

[NotUrsula]

The SWA specials normally come out in the wee hours of Tuesday morning. You should be able to catch the regular ones before work if you get up early. You can also call and book them over the phone, though you can't get the very-lowest priced specials that way, as those are reserved only for direct internet sale. (TA's don't have access to those fares, either, BTW.)

Do you carry a cellphone? You can register at the Southwest site to have the sale notification sent to ANY email address, including the text messaging capacity of a cell phone. You won't be able to click on the link to see details, but you will know when something new is being announced that you should call about.

TA's will usually book SWA tickets if you pay them to do so. Be careful that paying the fee does not negate the price difference vs. using another airline.

 

[Chicago526]

I'm a TA. SW doesn't pay us. Actually, NONE of the airlines pays us!

My agency will check and book SW, but only if you ask. We have to look and book online, just like anyone else. My agency would charge a fee. Our fee is $30, but prices vary. If you also book car and hotel with the same agent, you may be able to negotiate the service fee down a little, since you're throwing some other buisness their way.

Or like a previous poster said, you can just call them and book. You may not get the internet fare, but it's better than nothing!

Good luck!

 

[Cindie-rella]

I booked my airfare through a local travel agent. It was Liberty Travel. They told me it would be a $10 fee per tickect ,however, I lucked out because my son went to school with the TA's son so she waived the fee . I have booked my trip by myself and the TA had no prob's booking only my flight.