British Airways and Iberia owner IAG has agreed a new distribution deal with travel technology firm Sabre, which includes access to both traditional EDIFACT content as well as NDC-based offers.
The agreement will give travel buyers and TMCs connected to Sabre’s platforms “competitive access” to NDC content, including additional price points and ancillaries, from IAG’s carriers, which also includes Aer Lingus and Vueling.
“Sabre and IAG’s airlines are working closely together and will communicate as NDC content is rolled out to Sabre-connected travel agencies on a carrier-by-carrier basis,” said Sabre in a statement.
“The agreement between Sabre and IAG underscores the industry’s shift towards modern travel retailing, where airlines can differentiate their offerings and provide more personalised experiences to travellers.”
Colm Lacy, British Airways’ chief commercial officer, added: “Not only are we improving the experience of those customers who fly with us, but also the way we work with our valued travel agent and travel buyer partners.
“We understand how valuable retailing is to them, and IAG’s partnership with Sabre allows us to make a wide range of attractable offers available even further across the globe.”
Roshan Mendis, chief commercial officer of Sabre Travel Solutions, added: “The travel industry is entering a new era of personalised retailing that will bring better experiences for travellers and new revenue opportunities for airlines and travel agencies.”
