Sabre Corporation, renowned for its software and technology solutions in the global travel sector, is set to broaden its existing collaboration with International Airlines Group (IAG) through a multi-year distribution agreement. This move aims to bolster modern travel retailing practices.
Under this agreement, Sabre-connected travel agencies and buyers can market traditional EDIFACT content and gain competitive access to NDC offers from IAG's airlines - British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and Vueling. These offers include Additional Price Points and ancillaries, available globally via the Sabre travel marketplace. This expansion will present travel agencies with a plethora of options to compare and shop, while travelers enjoy a more transparent experience with increased choice. The rollout of NDC content to Sabre-connected travel agencies will be communicated on a carrier-by-carrier basis as Sabre and IAG's airlines continue their close collaboration.
The partnership between Sabre and IAG highlights the industry's transition towards modern travel retailing, where airlines can distinguish their offerings and deliver more personalized experiences to travelers. Both entities are dedicated to advancing the NDC standard as a crucial element in the industry’s shift towards modern airline retailing enabled by offers and orders.
British Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, Colm Lacy, expressed that the partnership with Sabre would allow them to extend a wide range of attractive offers across the globe, reflecting their commitment to improving the experience for both customers and travel agent partners.
This agreement marks another significant step in IAG's strategy to adopt digital retailing practices and provide more opportunities for customers to access NDC content. Sabre's partnership with IAG underscores its ongoing commitment to driving value and catering to the diverse needs of the global travel ecosystem.
Roshan Mendis, Chief Commercial Officer at Sabre Travel Solutions, shared his excitement about the future, noting the industry's transition into a new era of personalized retailing that promises to enhance traveler experiences and open new revenue streams for airlines and travel agencies. He commended IAG as a strong, forward-thinking partner equally committed to propelling the industry forward.