CASMA Partners With IATA; Introduces CASMA University

WASHINGTON, Aug. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- The Computerized Airline Sales & Marketing Association (CASMA) has partnered with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to offer an educational, certificate program focusing on airline distribution. The program will first be introduced during CASMA's Annual Conference, 24-28 October, Edinburgh.

CASMA University is an exclusive course, developed by CASMA Educational Advisory Council and IATA, which targets individuals new to airline distribution, while also offering updates on the ever-changing industry to those in need of refresher courses. The initial 8 hour course offered is "Airline Distribution - An Introduction and Overview" taught by John F. O'Connell, Air Transport Department, Cranfield University, England. This course will be offered during the CASMA conference on a complimentary basis to twenty-five students.

"Throughout the past several years, distribution has become a main focus for the airline industry in the need to reduce costs and streamline for efficiencies," said Kim Giese, President, CASMA. "CASMA University offers a centralized source for the exchange of ideas and the development of new solutions to the challenges faced within distribution, while also learning from the expertise of IATA and industry experts."

CASMA University is planning additional courses for future meetings to continue the education of CASMA distribution professionals. The cost is free to CASMA attendees during the course of CASMA meetings; offering unbeatable value and savings to CASMA attendees!

Registration has opened for CASMA, with the theme, "Today's Challenges = Tomorrow's Opportunities." The registration price of USD 1,495 per person is available until 1 September and includes 4 nights hotel, most meals, all events, conference materials and all meetings. Registration can be completed online at http://www.casma.org/.

This industry critical event will take place in front of more than 30 airlines including American Airlines , British Airways , Northwest Airlines , America West United Airlines (BULLETIN BOARD: UALAQ) , Air Canada, Korean Air, and Alitalia.

Registration, agenda, details at http://www.casma.org/.

CONTACT: Richard Lowry, Secretary of CASMA, [phone], [e-mail]