AirTran Airways launch partner of enhanced air shopping capabilities
SOUTHLAKE, Texas, Dec. 10, 2007 – In a distribution breakthrough for low cost carriers, Sabre Travel Network has launched enhanced air shopping capabilities with AirTran Airways that will provide the airline and Sabre Connected travel agencies a distinct advantage in serving their customers.
The launch of XML connectivity by Sabre Travel Network with AirTran Airways represents an industry first and a breakthrough for airlines selling their products and services through Sabre and Sabre Connected travel agents. The XML connectivity advantage allows airlines whose reservations systems support new, open system XML communications protocols, to provide enhanced services to their customers, such as real-time seat map information and up-to-the-minute flight information.
Sabre Travel Network’s XML connectivity also provides a platform to enable distribution of carriers that haven’t previously participated in GDS systems.
“AirTran Airways continues to look for ways to implement changes in their operations that will benefit their customers and leverage the carrier’s participation across a wider variety of distribution channels,” said Greg Webb Sabre Travel Network chief marketing officer. “This leading edge technology builds on our commitment to provide the most comprehensive travel content in the industry.”
Sabre Travel Network is also working with AirTran Airways to launch additional capabilities, including enhanced booking functionality during early 2008.
“Sabre Travel Network’s new XML connectivity, and the important capabilities it brings our airline, will allow us to provide valuable information and services to travel agents through the efficiency of the Sabre GDS,” said Kevin Healy, AirTran Airways vice president of planning. “We continue to invest in technology like this so we can serve the needs of our customers and improve operational efficiencies. We look forward to working with Sabre to provide even more features in the coming months.”
Having access to real-time seat map information provides travel agents insight into how full the flight is at the time of booking, as well as the specific seats agents may wish to request if they do need to contact AirTran Airways for a seat assignment for their traveler. This creates a better shopping experience for agents and travelers, which can result in increased sales for airlines using the new solution, Webb said.
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About Sabre Travel Network
Sabre Travel Network, a Sabre Holdings company, provides the most comprehensive end-to-end solutions for corporate and leisure travel. The Sabre GDS is the foundation for these solutions, providing a ready-built efficient marketplace that connects travel suppliers, including hundreds of airlines and thousands of hotels, with more than 50,000 travel agency locations.
Key brands of Sabre Travel Network include GetThere, for corporate travel reservation technology; Jurni Network, a consortium of leisure travel agencies providing marketing and promotion services; Nexion, a host agency; SynXis, for hotel reservation management, distribution and technology services; and TRAMS, mid- and back-office solutions and marketing services for travel agencies. Sabre Travel Network also markets TripTailor, a travel wholesaler providing dynamic packaging for the travel agency marketplace.
Sabre Holdings connects people with the world’s greatest travel possibilities by retailing travel products and providing distribution and technology solutions for the travel industry. More information about Sabre Holdings is available at http://www.sabre-holdings.com.
About AirTran Airways
AirTran Airways, a Fortune 1000 company, offers more than 700 affordable, daily flights to 56 U.S. destinations. With 8,900 friendly Crew Members and America’s youngest all-Boeing fleet, AirTran Airways provides XM Satellite Radio and Business Class seating on every flight. For more information and free online booking, visit airtran.com.