Top 10 Questions for Interline Clerk Interview

1. What is the role of an Interline Clerk?

An Interline Clerk is responsible for facilitating the transfer of passengers and baggage between different airlines. Key responsibilities include:

• Managing interline bookings and reservations
• Issuing interline tickets and boarding passes
• Monitoring interline passenger movements
• Handling baggage transfers and resolving baggage irregularities
• Providing customer service to interline passengers

2. What are the essential skills and qualifications for an Interline Clerk?

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in airline reservation systems (e.g., GDS, Sabre)
• Knowledge of interline ticketing procedures and regulations
• Understanding of baggage handling procedures
• Ability to operate interline ticketing software and equipment

Soft Skills

• Excellent customer service skills
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

3. Can you explain the process of issuing an interline ticket?

The process of issuing an interline ticket involves the following steps:

• Verifying the passenger’s itinerary and fare
• Contacting the issuing airline to obtain the ticket stock
• Validating the interline agreement between the airlines
• Printing and issuing the interline ticket
• Attaching the relevant coupons and baggage tags

4. What is the difference between a BSP (Billing and Settlement Plan) ticket and an interline ticket?

• BSP ticket: Issued by a travel agent authorized by IATA, redeemable by any airline participating in the BSP
• Interline ticket: Issued by one airline to enable travel on another airline, typically used for connecting flights or complex itineraries

5. How do you handle baggage transfers for interline passengers?

To handle baggage transfers for interline passengers, I follow these steps:

• Confirm the passenger’s baggage allowance
• Obtain baggage tags from both the originating and connecting airlines
• Attach the baggage tags securely to the passenger’s luggage
• Arrange for the baggage to be transferred from the first flight to the connecting flight
• Monitor the baggage transfer process and resolve any issues

6. Describe a situation where you had to resolve an interline baggage irregularity.

In a recent instance, an interline passenger’s baggage was delayed on the connecting flight. I immediately contacted the baggage handling team to locate the baggage and arranged for its delivery to the passenger’s final destination. I also provided regular updates to the passenger and kept them informed of the progress.

7. How do you ensure fair and equitable compensation for interline passengers in the event of flight disruptions?

To ensure fair and equitable compensation for interline passengers in the event of flight disruptions, I refer to the applicable interline agreements and industry regulations. I work closely with both the originating and connecting airlines to coordinate compensation arrangements that comply with established policies.

8. What are the legal and ethical considerations in the interline ticketing process?

• Compliance with interline agreements and industry regulations
• Protecting passenger data and confidentiality
• Avoiding conflicts of interest
• Maintaining high ethical standards in all dealings with passengers and airlines

9. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in interline ticketing and regulations?

• Attending industry conferences and workshops
• Reading trade publications and online resources
• Participating in online forums and discussion groups
• Networking with other Interline Clerks and industry professionals

10. What is your experience using revenue accounting systems for interline transactions?

I have experience using the Sabre Revenue Accounting System (SRAS) for processing interline transactions. I am proficient in reconciling interline sales, generating revenue reports, and managing interline settlements.

Interline Clerks play a crucial role in the smooth operations of an airline or travel agency, ensuring efficient interline ticketing and passenger connections.

1. Interline Ticketing

Process and issue interline tickets for passengers connecting between different airlines.

• Read and interpret interline agreements to determine ticket fares and conditions.
• Calculate ticket prices, including taxes and fees, and provide accurate quotes to customers.
• Use reservation systems to book flights, make seat assignments, and issue boarding passes.

2. Passenger Handling

Provide assistance and guidance to passengers with interline connections.

• Inform passengers of flight schedules, boarding times, and baggage handling procedures.
• Assist passengers with luggage transfers and provide directions to connecting flights.
• Resolve passenger queries and provide exceptional customer service.

3. Billing and Accounting

Process and reconcile interline invoices, payments, and settlements.

• Maintain accurate records of interline transactions, including ticket sales and payments.
• reconcile statements with other airlines and travel agencies to ensure accuracy.
• prepare reports and provide financial data for management purposes.

4. Communications and Networking

Maintain effective communication and relationships with other airlines, travel agents, and related parties.

• Attend industry conferences and workshops to stay updated on interline procedures and best practices.
• Network with other professionals in the field to exchange knowledge and establish professional connections.
• Stay informed about industry regulations and compliance requirements.

Interview preparation is crucial for success. Here are some tips to help you ace the interview for an Interline Clerk position:

1. Research the Company and Position

Thoroughly read the job description and research the airline or travel agency you are applying to. Understand their business model, interline policies, and customer service standards.

• Example: Visit the company website, read industry news, and check social media platforms.
• Example: A candidate applying for an Interline Clerk position at Delta Air Lines should be familiar with their SkyTeam alliance and interline partnerships.

2. Highlight Relevant Skills and Experience

Emphasize your experience and skills that align with the key job responsibilities. Quantify your accomplishments and use specific examples to demonstrate your abilities.

• Example: Mention your experience in processing interline tickets, handling passenger inquiries, or maintaining accurate financial records.
• Example: A candidate with experience in a travel agency can highlight their knowledge of different airlines’ interline agreements and their ability to provide seamless passenger connections.

3. Demonstrate Customer Service Orientation

Interline Clerks play a key role in customer interactions. Showcase your strong communication skills, empathy, and problem-solving abilities. Provide examples of how you have successfully handled difficult passengers or resolved customer issues.

• Example: Describe a situation where you went above and beyond to assist a passenger with an irregular connection or lost luggage.
• Example: A candidate with retail experience can highlight their ability to build rapport with customers and provide personalized service.

4. Prepare for Industry-Specific Questions

Expect questions about interline ticketing procedures, fare calculations, and industry regulations. Demonstrate your knowledge of IATA regulations, CRS systems, and interline settlement processes.

• Example: Be prepared to explain the difference between a straight ticket and a circle ticket.
• Example: A candidate with knowledge of Sabre or Amadeus reservation systems would be at an advantage.

5. Practice Common Interview Questions

Prepare for common interview questions, such as “Tell me about yourself” or “Why are you interested in this position?” Tailor your answers to highlight your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role.

• Example: Practice describing your professional journey and how it has prepared you for an Interline Clerk position.
• Example: A candidate with a passion for travel and a desire to provide exceptional customer experiences would be a strong fit.