Case Study: Compliance and Cost Savings with Fly America Act

CTP specializes in providing travel management services tailored to the unique needs of higher education institutions. Recently, a traveler from a prestigious university needed to book a flight for an upcoming international conference while ensuring compliance with the Fly America Act, which requires travelers on federally funded grants to use U.S. air carriers for international travel.

Challenge

The traveler, a faculty member at the university, was tasked with attending an international conference funded by a federal grant. Compliance with the Fly America Act was essential to ensure that the travel expenses were eligible for reimbursement. However, the traveler faced the challenge of finding a suitable flight option that met the act’s requirements while also balancing cost considerations.

Solution

CTP provided expert guidance and support to the traveler throughout the flight booking process:

• Research and Assistance: The traveler initially researched flight options independently and found a United Airlines flight priced at $3700. Recognizing the significant expense, the traveler reached out to CTP for assistance in booking the flight.
• Alternative Option: CTP travel agent, familiar with the Fly America Act and international travel regulations, reviewed the traveler’s requirements and flight preferences. The agent identified an Austrian Airlines flight option priced at $1500, significantly lower than the United Airlines option.
• Compliance Counseling: Understanding the traveler’s concern regarding compliance with the Fly America Act, the agent provided counseling and clarification regarding the act’s requirements. The agent explained that under the Open Skies Agreement, travelers could book flights operated by foreign carriers, such as Austrian Airlines, and still be compliant with the act.
• Cost Savings: Armed with this knowledge, the traveler opted to book the Austrian Airlines flight, realizing substantial cost savings of $2200 compared to the United Airlines option. The agent facilitated the booking process and ensured that all necessary documentation and compliance requirements were met.

The Results

The collaboration between the traveler and CTP resulted in a successful outcome:

• Compliance with Fly America Act: By booking the Austrian Airlines flight, the traveler remained compliant with the Fly America Act while attending the international conference funded by a federal grant.
• Significant Cost Savings: The traveler saved $2200 by opting for the Austrian Airlines flight, demonstrating the value of expert consulting and guidance provided by CTP.
• Gratitude and Satisfaction: The traveler expressed gratitude to the travel agent for their assistance, acknowledging the substantial cost savings achieved while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Overall, the successful navigation of the Fly America Act requirements combined with significant cost savings underscored the effectiveness and expertise of CTP in meeting the unique travel needs of higher education clients.