The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) and several key industry organizations have released a joint statement commending Norwegian Cruise Line’s decision to permanently discontinue non-commissionable fares, or NCFs. The move is seen as a major shift toward greater transparency and fairness within the travel distribution sector and may prompt other suppliers to examine their current fare structures.
“Non-commissionable fares have been one of the most persistent and opaque challenges facing travel advisors,” said Zane Kerby, President and CEO of ASTA, in a press statement. “Norwegian Cruise Line’s decision reflects a growing recognition of the value advisors bring to the distribution ecosystem and the need for compensation models that are straightforward and equitable. This is the kind of leadership that moves the industry forward, and ASTA is proud to help unify voices calling for meaningful change.”
The collective response marks an uncommon display of unity across consortia, host agencies, and network leadership, reflecting a growing demand for compensation models that clearly define earning potential. For years, NCFs have reduced effective commission income and created uncertainty around payout calculations, making it difficult to assess true revenue from cruise sales.
ASTA played a central role in coordinating the statement’s signatories, reinforcing its ongoing efforts to advocate for business practices that support equitable compensation. Norwegian Cruise Line’s removal of NCFs places the company among a limited number of cruise lines offering fully commissionable rates, a model that provides clearer transparency in fare breakdowns.
“This joint statement matters because it gives our members something they rarely see at this scale: unity,” said Michael Schottey, Vice President of Membership, Marketing and Communications at ASTA, in a press statement. “When advisors, agencies and industry leaders speak together, it sends a clear message that fair compensation and transparency are not niche concerns; they are foundational to a healthy travel marketplace.”
Industry participants can review the full statement through ASTA’s official communication channel.
ASTA and NCL Town Hall
Furthering this discussion, ASTA will hold a virtual town hall on Fri., Jan. 16 at 1 p.m. ET. The session will feature John Chernesky, Senior Vice President of North American Sales at Norwegian Cruise Line. The event host, Schottey, will lead a conversation exploring how the elimination of NCFs impacts fare structure, booking procedures, and overall sales operations. The meeting will include a live Q&A, giving participants the opportunity to ask questions directly to Norwegian Cruise Line’s leadership team.
The town hall represents part of a continuing industry dialogue around transparent financial practices and the wider implications of compensable fare adjustments. The elimination of NCFs is expected to encourage broader conversations about sustainable commission models that can support long-term revenue strategies across the travel channel.
For more information, visit asta.org.
