At 06:41 PM 3/25/2002 -0800, Mark Greenwood wrote: >And why Nick, do you feel that the airlines should have a free >distribution network? > >Mark What makes you think I think they should have a free distribution network??? I call (800) 241-6522. Maybe I call another 800 number or visit a couple of web sites from competing airlines to compare fares and schedules. I talk to someone an airline pays. They pay the cost of the incoming phone call. They mail me a receipt at their cost. Sounds to me like they're paying for the distribution network. Do you get more business in non-airline revenue because you can also sell airline tickets along with the hotel rooms or resort bookings that you make? Would your business be less if you had to tell your clients, "Just call the airline and book these tickets yourself"? If so, you should be thankful you can deal with the airlines on your clients' behalf. That they used to pay you for each ticket you had a hand in was nice, but I suspect you get as much from your access to them as they get from you. Nick