ASTA Urges Antitrust Review of American Airlines, Citing Market Dominance

The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is urging the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to conduct an antitrust review of American Airlines, raising concerns about the carrier’s dominant position in the U.S. market. ASTA’s focus includes fare distribution, airport slot allocation, travel agency agreements, competition in the domestic airline sector, and a review of airline alliances. The association specifically requests the DOT to intervene in the dispute over American’s New Distribution Capability (NDC) platform, alleging harm to consumers and the travel industry. American Airlines expresses disappointment with ASTA’s complaint, emphasizing its commitment to modernizing the travel experience.