America West Airlines have announced the elimination of base commission for all travel agency issued tickets in the United States (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and Canada.

Separately, America West announced the introduction of the Agency AWArds commission program for travel agents, which offers agencies the opportunity to earn commission payments in exchange for booking more of their business on America West.

``Our new Agency AWArds incentive program is good for both America West and our agency partners,`` said Scott Kirby, executive vice president, sales and marketing. ``We expect to generate more revenue and our agents can earn commissions for supporting America West.``

The Agency AWArds program is structured similarly to airline frequent flyer programs, with agencies categorized and compensated based on performance. Elite-level agencies, performing at a significant market share premium, will receive the highest commission payments. The maximum commission payment for this program is 5 percent. Further Agency AWArds program details are available on America West`s travel agent web site, ta.americawest.com . America West encourages all U.S. ARC-approved travel agencies, small or large, to enroll for Agency AWArds at www.ta.americawest.com . Enrollments must be received by Friday, March 29, 2002.

America West`s base commission elimination takes effect immediately and applies to all tickets, Miscellaneous Charge Orders (MCOs) and Prepaid Ticket Advices (PTAs). This change will affect tickets issued for both domestic and international travel. This change does not apply to tickets purchased outside of the United States and Canada.

America West Airlines, the nation`s eighth-largest carrier, serves 88 destinations in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Along with its code share partners, America West serves more than 170 destinations worldwide. America West Airlines is a wholly owned subsidiary of America West Holdings Corporation, an aviation and travel services company with 2001 sales of $2.1 billion.

Related stories on ITN:

(22/03/2002) US Airways Joins Others Eliminating Commissions

(09/01/2002) America West to Change E-Ticketing Policies for 2002
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