 "Air India")
Air India on Wednesday announced a new multi-year deal with Nasdaq-listed Sabre Corporation that will allow travel agents and corporations worldwide to access the Indian airline's fares and seats via Sabre's global travel marketplace.
Air India said in a statement that it is utilising Sabre's consultancy expertise and distribution services to help determine optimal routes for its existing and new fleets.
However, the deal's value was not made public.
"The Indian travel market is back, and it's coming back strong," said Nipun Aggarwal, chief commercial & transformation officer Air India.
He said, "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."
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"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," he added.
Air India is seeking a multi-stage transformation roadmap to become a "world class global airline with an Indian heart."
The airline has also placed this year's largest aircraft order in aviation history for 470 planes as it looks for a big leap into global skies.
The flag carrier is expanding its fleet and network, modernising its customer offering, and improving operational reliability.
Earlier this month, the airline announced the completion of the first phase of its five-year transformation plan, called Vihaan.AI. The first stage of the airline's transformation journey was dedicated to addressing legacy issues and laying the groundwork for future growth.
The new Sabre agreement follows the company's announcement that it will use artificial intelligence-driven chatbots and other initiatives as part of a $200 million investment to modernise its digital systems.
The company said that Sabre's consulting services with Air India include a thorough market analysis, the creation of new hub and schedule structural designs, and detailed planning of route network and capacity over a ten-year period.
"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," said Roshan Mendis, Chief Commercial Officer, Sabre Travel Solutions.
"And, our travel agency partners in India and around the world will gain greatly from having access to Air India's products and services," he added.
(With PTI input)
(With PTI input)
