Abta increases subscription fees by 3% on average

Abta has informed members of a 3% overall rise in annual subscriptions from July 1, although some members’ payments may rise by more than this and some by less depending on their revenue.

An Abta spokesperson explained: “Everyone pays the same minimum amount. Those whose turnover is more than this base level pay an additional amount proportionately as turnover increases.”

Additional fees apply depending on a member’s mix of turnover – as a retail agent, principal or airline ticket agent – and the turnover itself.

Both the minimum and additional fee levels have risen by 3%. This follows a 2% increase for the 2025-26 financial year now ending. However, subscriptions rose 7% for 2024-25 when Abta reverted to applying rates broadly in line with members’ turnover.

Abta declined to share details of its subscription rates, saying: “We share those with current and applicant members, with detail relating to their specific circumstances.”

Any member unclear about their subscription increase is advised to get in contact with the association.

The latest increase is in line with current inflation, which dipped to 2.8% in May, down from 3.8% last July, but is below the 4% rate forecast for later this year.

The spokesperson said: “The Abta board, primarily comprising Abta members, agreed a 3% increase as the right amount to allow the continued delivery of the service members want. This level has been minimised by careful cost control.

“As last year, each member’s subscription is based on their recent turnover. This means some may see an increase of more than 3%, others an increase of less than 3% or a reduction compared with last year, depending on how their turnover has changed.”

The spokesperson added: “The Abta brand is increasingly strong and continues to be both a significant badge of confidence and a sales driver, with 89% of people saying they would prefer to book with an Abta member than a non-member, 75% saying they only trust travel companies that are members of Abta, and 54% saying they would pay more for a holiday with an Abta member than a non-member.”

Abta said it would continue to focus on member priorities “such as the impact of the Iran conflict, the implementation of EES, sustainability, and education and training, alongside Abta’s ongoing work, which includes legal advice and support, government lobbying, destination updates and liaison, financial protection and crisis management.”