Sabre, Air India re-establish relationship with new distribution agreement

Dhaka: Sabre Corporation, one of the world’s leading software and travel technology provider, and Air India, one of India’s leading airlines, on April 27, announced a new multi-year deal, effective from May 4.

The move will enable travel agents and corporations around the world to access Air India fares and seats through Sabre’s extensive global travel marketplace.  

Having recently placed the biggest aircraft order in aviation history for 470 aircraft, Air India is forging ahead with ambitious expansion plans. In addition to the distribution services, Air India is utilising Sabre’s consultancy expertise to help determine optimal routes for its existing and new fleet, said a press release by Sabre Corporation.

On the occasion, Roshan Mendis, Chief Commercial Officer, Sabre Travel Solutions, said, “We are confident Air India will gain substantial value by having access and reach to Sabre’s global network of travel agencies, in conjunction with benefiting from our route planning expertise.”

“And, our travel agency partners in India and around the world will gain greatly from having access to Air India’s products and services,” Mendis added.

Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial and Transformation Officer, Air India, mentioned, “The Indian travel market is back, and it’s coming back strong. So, we’re delighted to have re-established, and enhanced, our relationship with Sabre at this transformative time for Air India, and the wider Indian travel marketplace. This long-term global distribution partnership will support our ambitious growth plans while paving the ground for our transition towards a more dynamic, merchandising-focused model, designed to unlock the value of Air India’s products and services.”

The new deal marks an important new chapter in the relationship between Air India and Sabre and is testament to Sabre’s commitment to the Indian travel market.

Sabre’s consultancy work with Air India includes an in-depth market evaluation, the development of new hub and schedule structural designs, and detailed planning of route network and capacity over a 10-year horizon, as well as the optimisation of fleet assignment across its system.

• T