Travel Agents as a Line of Defense

I am a travel agent. In light of the Sept. 11 tragedy, I must express my concerns. I believe that if travel agencies were used more often to book airline tickets, there would be more control over security and less chance for the nightmare in which we now find ourselves.

At a travel agency, much of our business is done face to face. We obtain checking-account and credit-card approvals and have addresses and phone numbers.

The airline industry was quick to develop its own Web sites and discounts to lure clients away from travel agents. And airlines have lowered commissions to us. Now that so many people are rendered nameless and faceless by using Internet ticketing, it was easier to commit the kind of terror that happened Sept. 11.

MARYLIN BEARD

Los Angeles

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I am upset that United Airlines is charging a $100 fee for those of us who did not use our tickets by Sept. 25. It is reprehensible considering how we are all deeply affected by the Sept. 11 tragedy.

How can a multibillion-dollar bailout with taxpayer money be justified when airlines have no consideration for the passenger? (Southwest Airlines is the exception.) Also, the airline representatives with whom I have recently spoken have been rude. Is this how we build good relationships in a time of sorrow?

NORMA BASGALL

Carlsbad, Calif.