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ARTA Canada Clears-Up ACTA Tax Miscalculation
Toronto, 01 March 2010: Canada's Association of Retail Travel Agents (ARTA Canada) wishes to clear up comments attributed to ACTA regarding the increase in the Air Travellers Security Charge (ATSC). ACTA is reported to have stated that with the increase proposed by Minister of Transport John Baird effective 01 April 2010, the cost on a "two-way" (roundtrip) international ticket will more than $50.00 for the ATSC. This is not correct.
The actual proposed fee on a roundtrip international ticket is $25.91. Canada's Air Travellers Security Charge is levied in varying amounts on applicable departures from Canadian airports; not arrivals in Canada. Whether one way or roundtrip, an international ticket accrues the ATSC upon departure from Canada and in a fixed amount, proposed to be $25.91.
ACTA's error aside, ARTA Canada is concerned that the cost of air travel in Canada is increasing through the levy of increased taxes and fees. Applicable domestic air travel originating in BC and Ontario will soon be 7% and 8% more expensive respectively. Add to that the increase in the ATSC and increased Airport Improvement Fees like the one slated for Montreal-Trudeau and travellers can be expected to more than feel the pinch.
"This is not the way for the government or airports to support the air travel industry. Alternative modes of transportation seem to escape being treated as cash cows, and all stakeholders need to reevaluate their relentless fee assault on airline passengers", said ARTA Canada President Bruce Bishins.
About ARTA Canada
ARTA Canada is the largest non-profit federally incorporated professional association of travel retailers in Canada, the members of which consist exclusively of travel agencies and travel agents. In addition to advocating fair and equitable treatment of travel consumers, ARTA Canada represents the commercial and strategic interests of its member travel agencies and travel agents in a variety of national and provincial domains including regulatory and legislative matters, automation, technology, sales and marketing, and distribution.
ARTA Canada is the strategic partner in Canada of the U.S.-based Association of Retail Travel Agents (ARTA). ARTA Canada is the Canadian member of UFTAA, the United Federation of Travel Agents' Associations. To join ARTA Canada, complete details and online membership application and secure payment are available on the ARTA Canada web site at www.artacanada.ca/join. | 
