Travelport-Air France KLM deal lets agents avoid GDS charge

28th Mar 2018 | Elizabeth Sasu

Travelport and Air France KLM have signed a new general distribution agreement that allows agents to avoid the carrier’s GDS charge through a private channel arrangement.

Air France, KLM and HOP! content will include Travelport’s leading rich content, branded fares, fare families and multiple ancillaries, the company said in an announcement today.

The agreement enables customers selected by Air France HOP! and KLM to access a private channel via Travelport.

This will allow them to receive content without the additional distribution surcharge levied by Air France KLM starting on April 1.

Derek Sharp, Travelport senior vice president and managing director for air commerce, said of the new deal:

“We are delighted to have signed this agreement with Air France KLM, one of Europe’s leading airline groups.

“This is an extension of a long-term relationship which has delivered greater choice to Air France KLM’s customers.

“We look forward to a continuing productive partnership as we deploy new technology with the airline.”

Emmanuelle Gailland, vice president distribution Air France KLM, added:

“Travelport has been a great partner throughout our Private Channel engagement as a transition towards New Distribution Capability.

“Both Air France KLM and Travelport will work together to bring NDC content of new fares, products, services and rich media in the marketplace.”

Travelport said its customers will continue to benefit from its beyond booking capability that enables workflow automation, change management processes, multiple content integration, robotics for fulfilment and other key services.

The Travelport GDS has attained the highest level of IATA certification for the deployment of its emerging NDC distribution standard and technology.

Source: travolution