(30/10/23) Air India has signed an enhanced distribution
agreement with Sabre that builds upon the
deal signed in April 2023.
Under the augmented agreement, travel agencies in
India will have access to Air India’s expansive domestic content
through the Sabre Global Distribution System (GDS) from 1 January
2024.
The airline has also
added the ability to distribute New Distribution Capability (NDC)
content globally through Sabre’s travel marketplace in the future.
Air India Boeing 787-8 reg: VT-ANQ. Picture by Steven Howard of TravelNewsAsia.com
“India is already one of the largest domestic
aviation markets in the world, and all the building blocks are in
place for significant future growth. One of our key priorities is
to work with the right technology partners to capitalize on these
growth opportunities as we forge ahead with our transformation
efforts,” said Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial & Transformation
Officer, Air India. “Our collaboration with Sabre has already
proven successful, which aligns perfectly with our commitment to
offering convenient and accessible travel options to our guests.
By joining forces with Sabre to distribute our domestic content to
our domestic India market, we are further enabling travellers to
explore the diverse destinations that Air India’s domestic network
covers and, to travel seamlessly abroad.”
Earlier this year, the two companies signed a distribution deal that provided travel agencies outside of India access to Air
India’s domestic and international flight options, while agencies
within India could shop international fares. That agreement has
now been expanded to include the carrier’s domestic content for
points of sale within India.
For Sabre, this enhanced alliance further expands
its footprint in the increasingly important Indian travel market,
while enhancing content for travel agents, and enabling Air India
to widen its reach.
Air India’s comprehensive domestic network
spans the length and breadth of India, connecting major cities,
popular tourist destinations, and business hubs. Adding domestic
content into Sabre’s GDS means Sabre-connected travel agents in
India will be able to effortlessly access and book Air India
flights alongside other global carriers, facilitating
multi-carrier itineraries and ensuring a more seamless experience
for travellers.
“We’re thrilled that our relationship with Air
India continues to gain in strength and momentum,” said Roshan
Mendis, Chief Commercial Officer, Sabre. “Air India has incredibly
ambitious expansion plans, and adding its domestic content to our
global travel marketplace will enable the carrier to broaden its
distribution strategy, expand geographic reach, and enhance
revenue opportunities in one of the world’s fastest growing
aviation markets. Bringing Air India’s domestic content into our
GDS reflects our dedication to empowering travel agents with rich
content and enhances the value we bring to our customers.”
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