Ryanair “in talks with GDS”
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Ryanair has confirmed to technology website Tnooz it is in talks with Travelport, Amadeus and Sabre to distribute its fares through travel agencies.
The carrier has been previously adamant that it did not want travel agent business, but appears to have changed its mind as it looks to become more friendly and open in its approach.
It is not known if the carrier will choose one or several GDS partners.
Tnooz had picked up on the detail after Ryanair announced its ex-head of sales and marketing for Europe Lesley Kane had now been appointed to head of groups and corporate travel.
In a statement on Ryanair’s website Kane said businesses and group organisers have been asking for products, which will see a groups section added to its homepage.
A new business product with flexible tickets, reserved seating and fast-track at selected airports will be available in the coming weeks.
“I look forward to rolling out Ryanair’s new groups and business product offering in early 2014. Ryanair is continually improving our customer service and has received numerous requests from group organisers and corporate businesses to develop and launch these new exciting products,” said Kane. “From early 2014, groups and business customers will be able to enjoy the added benefits of our tailored products, which will support Ryanair’s passenger growth to over 110 million passengers by 2019.”
Ryanair’s Michael O’Leary said: “[Kane’s] extensive knowledge of sales and marketing, combined with her considerable experience from her time as head of Ryanair direct will ensure the successful implementation of Ryanair’s new service improvements.”
Rival easyJet introduced GDS sales in 2011 targeting business travellers and eased travel agent bookings further in September 2013.
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