ATAB Urges Not to Spread  Rumors or False News About Appointment of Administrator

The Association of Travel Agents of Bangladesh (ATAB) has strongly urged all concerned not to spread or believe in rumors and misleading information regarding the appointment of an administrator to the organization.

In an official press release, ATAB stated that a vested interest group, known for manipulating the air ticket market through syndication, has been engaged in a smear campaign against the current ATAB committee. This group has been spreading baseless allegations and false propaganda in an attempt to discredit the committee, mislead the media, and misinform the public.

The false campaign began after the current ATAB leadership took a strong stance against unethical syndicate practices in the air ticketing sector. ATAB’s goal has been to dismantle the syndicate, stabilize airfare prices, and ensure fair practices for the benefit of both the industry and the general public.

A hearing on the complaints filed against the ATAB committee was held on July 7, 2025, at the Trade Organization Sub-Division Office. However, no decision has been made by the Trade Organization Division regarding the dissolution or cancellation of the current committee. Despite this, false rumors continue to circulate, claiming that the committee has been dissolved — an attempt to mislead ATAB members and the wider public.

ATAB, which represents nearly 4,000 members travel agencies, expressed deep concern over the dissemination of defamatory and fabricated information. These falsehoods not only damage the reputation of the current committee but also hurt the sentiments and self-respect of ATAB’s dedicated members.

In this context, ATAB calls on all stakeholders — including media outlets, travel industry professionals, and the general public — not to be influenced by unverified and misleading information. The organization remains steadfast in its commitment to combating unethical practices in the air ticketing sector and will continue working closely with the government to eliminate all forms of ticket syndication.

“ATAB will always stand against any individual, institution, or group involved in artificially inflating air ticket prices. We are determined to uphold fair practices and protect the interests of our members and the traveling public,” the press release concluded.