United Cuts Travel Agent Commissions to 8%

UAL Corp.’s United Airlines chopped travel agent commissions to 8% from 10% in a bid to cut costs and remain competitive. United, the nation’s largest airline, estimated it will save about $80 million to $100 million annually that can be used to improve its services. The move sparked an angry response from travel agents. Steve Loucks, a spokesman for the American Society of Travel Agents, said the group is “exploring all of its options, legal and otherwise,” after United’s decision. Chicago-based UAL declined to comment beyond its news release. UAL shares rose $1.38 to close at $85.88 on the New York Stock Exchange.