What is a consolidator?

Consolidators are companies that sell airline tickets at unpublished fares they negotiate with the airlines. Most sell only to retail travel agencies for resale to the public. Consolidators do not “buy in bulk”, but contract with airlines for access to seats in inventories designated specifically for consolidators, and purchase the seats one at a time as they sell them. The best consolidator deals are for international business and first class tickets. Because airlines need to protect their most lucrative major routes, consolidator tickets are often on connecting flights and not through major hubs. Restrictions vary depending on the contract between the consolidator and airline. Some are non-refundable and do not permit frequent flyer credit, advance seat assignments, etc., while others do. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of consolidators in business today ranging from the very reputable to the very disreputable. Travel-On, like most travel management companies, works with a select group of consolidators who have been rigorously vetted and stood the test of time.