Aer Lingus faces row with travel agents

Aer Lingus is set for a showdown with travel agents after it today confirmed its decision to reduce the commission it pays them from the start of February.

Aer Lingus said the cut is part of a stringent attack on costs right across the company and will ultimately provide lower fares to its passengers.

Company Head of Sales Seamus Kearney said all businesses have had to adapt as the airline industry undergoes fundamental changes and travel agents are no different.

The Irish Travel Agents Association has reacted with fury and is pledging to fight the move all the way.