NEW YORK — Norwegian Air’s decision to renew its distribution agreement with one of the biggest GDSs in the world comes as the low-cost carrier reports a three-year 110% increase in Amadeus travel seller bookings on long-haul routes.
Norwegian and Amadeus say they have renewed their partnership, with the LCC signing an agreement that ensures Amadeus travel sellers access to the airline’s fares.
A statement from the airline and the GDS says the close partnership between the two companies and adoption of key technologies have been instrumental in Norwegian’s growth. Insight into travellers’ booking and payment preferences from Amadeus’ travel agency network has enabled the airline to adapt its strategy and significantly increase agency bookings.
More than 25% of travel seller bookings for Norwegian now originate outside of Norwegian’s home region of Scandinavia.
“As a growing global airline, it is vital to keep costs low and offer affordable fares. This way we can increase the number of passengers and add the direct routes that travellers want. It’s always difficult to enter a new market, where you’re not well-known, and our partnership with Amadeus has given us the technology, connections and insight we needed to grow our business,” says Lars Sande, Senior Vice President of Sales and Distribution, Norwegian.
He adds: “Travel sellers are a key channel for us representing 20% of all our bookings. We are delighted to have renewed and expanded our relationship with Amadeus as we pursue continued growth.”
Under the renewed agreement targeted, bundled fares will continue to be offered through travel sellers. These bundled fares include premium services and deliver a better booking experience for travellers and agency partners, says Norwegian.
“We are very pleased to support Norwegian’s low cost long haul growth strategy and our expanded agreement helps to underline the key supporting role of the intermediated channel. We have been working hand in hand with the airline to help enable its expansion through innovative distribution and IT solutions. This technology has been supported by unique insights from our extensive travel agency network, allowing Norwegian to adapt its strategy due to local market conditions,” said Manuel Midon, Head of Airlines, Northern & Western Europe, Amadeus.
Norwegian Air has also been an Amadeus Altéa Passenger Service System (PSS) customer since 2010. This has helped its operations to run smoothly and consistently in every market, whilst bringing agility and efficiency to travel agencies selling the airline’s offer. Agents are able to see real-time flight information with a shared PNR, gain instant visibility on seat availability and changes, and track and service customers throughout their journey.
