[Butch Cassidy Slept Here]

An airline only has your telephone number if you directly booked with them. A travel agenct ususally puts their agency phone number in the reservation.

That has always been my understanding. Forty years ago--the period when I swore-off using travel agents--I was able to phone the airline directly any have them enter my contact phone number onto my travel agent reservation. However, the res agent, even then, made it clear, through her attitude, that she did not like doing this. Today, I expect a similar request would result in one talking to the dial tone.

So, if you make reservations through a travel agent you're completely at the mercy of the travel agent as to whether you get called if there is a schedule change, cancellation, etc. Likewise, if you encounter any other problems expect the airport staff to seize upon your travel agent reservation and refuse you help that would otherwise be extended on the basis that you need to "call your agent." Accordingly the money saved by booking through Expedia, et al, may not be justified by the aggravation that follows.