What Is ARC in Tourism?

By Anna Duncan

ARC or the Airlines Reporting Corporation is a company that provides ticket distribution, settlement, and data solutions in the travel industry. It was founded in 1984 as a joint venture between nine major airlines. Today, ARC has evolved to become a leading provider of travel distribution and financial settlement solutions in the United States.

What Does ARC Do?

ARC provides an electronic platform that connects travel agencies with airlines, hotels, car rental companies, and other travel providers. Through this platform, travel agencies can book and issue tickets for their clients using ARC’s secure payment system.

ARC also provides settlement services that ensure that all parties involved in a transaction receive their payments on time. This ensures that airlines get paid for the tickets they have sold, while travel agencies get paid for their services.

How Does ARC Work?

ARC operates on a two-week billing cycle. During this time, travel agencies report their sales to ARC and pay for the tickets they have issued. ARC then collects these payments and distributes them to the respective airlines.

ARC also provides data and analytical services to its clients. This includes access to market intelligence reports, sales data, and other insights that help travel providers make informed business decisions.

Benefits of Using ARC

There are several benefits of using ARC for both travel providers and agencies. Firstly, it provides a secure payment system that ensures timely payments to all parties involved in a transaction.

Secondly, it simplifies the booking process by providing a single platform where travel agents can access inventory from multiple suppliers. This saves time and reduces the risk of errors when booking complex itineraries.

Finally, ARC’s data services provide valuable insights into market trends and consumer behavior. This information helps businesses make informed decisions about pricing strategies and market positioning.

Conclusion

In summary, ARC is an essential player in the tourism industry providing a platform for travel agencies and suppliers to connect, book, and manage travel services. Its secure payment system, data analytics, and settlement services make it a valuable partner for businesses in the travel industry.