Travel Consultant Apprenticeship Course Syllabus

Course Title

Travel Consultant Apprenticeship Course

Course Code

TCON101

Description

This course, under the Apprenticeship Training Scheme (ATS), provides comprehensive training for travel consultants, focusing on planning travel itineraries, booking flights, hotels, and other services, and delivering outstanding customer service. Apprentices will gain hands-on experience in using Global Distribution Systems (GDS), advising clients on travel options, and ensuring compliance with travel regulations, preparing them for roles in travel agencies, tour operators, and online travel platforms. The course aligns with the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and complies with the Apprentices Act, 1961.

Objectives

• Design and book customized travel itineraries based on client preferences and budgets.
• Provide professional customer service to address client inquiries and travel needs.
• Use GDS and online platforms to book flights, accommodations, and tour packages.
• Ensure compliance with IATA, DGCA, and other travel regulations.

Schedule

The course spans 8 weeks, combining basic training and on-the-job practical training as per ATS guidelines. Each week focuses on specific skills essential for travel consultants. Below is the detailed breakdown:

Week 1: Introduction to Travel Consulting

Overview of the travel and tourism industry, consultant roles, workplace ethics, and travel regulations under ATS.

Week 2: Travel Products and Services

Understanding travel products (e.g., flights, hotels, tours, cruises) and their features to recommend to clients.

Week 3: Global Distribution Systems (GDS)

Using GDS platforms (e.g., Amadeus, Sabre) for booking flights, hotels, and car rentals.

Week 4: Itinerary Planning

Designing customized travel itineraries, including multi-city trips, based on client preferences and budgets.

Week 5: Customer Service and Communication

Developing communication skills to advise clients, handle inquiries, and resolve travel-related issues.

Week 6: Fare Calculations and Ticketing

Calculating fares, issuing electronic tickets, and managing refunds or reissuance per airline policies.

Week 7: Travel Documentation and Compliance

Assisting with travel documentation (e.g., visas, passports) and ensuring compliance with IATA and DGCA regulations.

Week 8: Final Project and Assessment

Completion of a comprehensive travel consulting project (e.g., planning and booking a complete travel itinerary) and preparation for the All India Trade Test (AITT) under NCVT.

Assessment Methods

Apprentice performance is evaluated through a combination of practical, theoretical, and participatory components, preparing them for the National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC):

• Weekly Assignments: 40%
• Midterm Project: 20%
• Final Project: 30%
• Participation and Attendance: 10%

Instructor

Prof. Arjun Patel

Language

Available in: English

Status

Published

Additional Notes

Apprentices must be at least 14 years old and meet the minimum educational qualification (typically 12th grade passed or equivalent, preferably with a commerce or tourism background, as per trade requirements). The course includes basic training (20-25% of the program) and on-the-job training, with a stipend provided as per NAPS guidelines (e.g., Rs. 7700 per month for one-year ITI trade passed apprentices, as per Gazette notification dated 25th September 2019). Successful completion leads to the National Apprenticeship Certificate (NAC) upon passing the All India Trade Test (AITT), recognized for employment in government and private sectors. The training emphasizes customer-centric itinerary planning and technical proficiency, addressing the demand for skilled travel consultants in India’s growing travel and tourism sector, projected to contribute USD 125 billion to the economy by 2027.