Sunil Kumar is a prominent figure in India’s travel industry, running for the presidency of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) once again, after having served from 2014 to 2019. He is also the current Global President of UFTAA (United Federation of Travel Agents Associations) and Co-Founder of Air Retailer, a corporate booking tool. In conversation, we learn about his plans for transforming TAAI with his ‘Team Positive for Change’ campaign and how his global experiences have shaped his vision for the future of the association.
By Naina Nath
Re-Engineering TAAI for the Future
Kumar believes that TAAI needs to evolve with the changing times. “As we progress, we need re-tooling. We need to be re-engineered to remain relevant,” he says. However, this change won’t come from TAAI itself—it requires active leadership and engagement from its members. His primary focus? Putting members first.
“Members are our priority. They are our ‘customers,’ and if we don’t listen to them and address their concerns, how can we be a professional association?” he asks. Kumar’s approach focuses on issues that matter to members—insurance, education, technology support, and engaging with IATA and airlines on important topics like refunds and credit card policies.
“Member network and engagement are key,” he says, noting the need to revitalize TAAI conventions and make them more productive. Kumar stresses that the future of the association depends on its ability to listen, adapt, and act on member feedback.
Building Stronger Relationships with Airlines
With his extensive work with UFTAA, Kumar has been part of several critical discussions with IATA and airlines. He has seen firsthand how important it is to have strong, consistent communication between travel agents and airlines. His experience handling issues like refunds and credit card disputes on a global level gives him the edge in understanding and addressing these challenges for TAAI members.
“Our members have been leaving because they see no benefit in staying,” he says bluntly. For Kumar, fixing this disconnect requires ensuring members feel heard and valued. “We can’t afford to lose our members. They need to feel privileged to be part of TAAI.”
Kumar aims to fast-track discussions on key industry issues like Airline Debit Memos (ADMs) and refunds, ensuring TAAI’s engagement with airlines and IATA remains consistent and focused. He believes his experience will help bring better outcomes for members, restoring their faith in the association.
Empowering Members Through Knowledge and Technology
Kumar plans to relaunch the TAAI Knowledge Conclave, an initiative to keep members informed about the latest developments in the travel industry. “Learning is never-ending,” he says, underscoring the importance of education in an industry that is constantly evolving.
One key trend Kumar sees is the shift towards “air retailing,” where airlines are offering more direct services and options to customers. For TAAI members to stay competitive, Kumar believes they need to be proactive and embrace these changes. He also stresses the importance of maintaining regular debates and discussions with airlines to ensure members’ concerns are addressed and to drive better outcomes
Involving Younger Professionals in TAAI’s Future
A central pillar of Kumar’s campaign is engaging younger professionals in the travel industry. He sees their involvement as essential for the future success of TAAI. “It’s delightful to see the younger generation join us. They are our future,” he says. Kumar believes in training, mentoring, and inspiring young leaders to bring new ideas and fresh perspectives to the association.
“We need newer approaches and out-of-the-box solutions,” he says, emphasizing the need to create a dedicated forum for younger leaders within TAAI. Kumar’s goal is to build a collaborative environment where young professionals feel empowered to contribute and lead the association toward a more progressive future.
A Future Built on Collaboration and Progress
As Sunil Kumar seeks re-election, his vision for TAAI is one that is built on teamwork, member engagement, and innovation. His focus on re-tooling the association, strengthening relationships with airlines, and empowering the next generation of leaders is rooted in his belief that TAAI must evolve to stay relevant.
With his global experience and commitment to member priorities, Sunil Kumar’s “Team Positive for Change” campaign promises to bring fresh energy and ideas to the association, ensuring it remains a powerful voice for India’s travel agents in the years to come.
