Air India and Sabre today have signed a multi-year agreement that would allow travel agencies and organisations worldwide to access the Indian airline’s pricing and seats through Sabre’s global travel marketplace.
Air India is India’s national carrier airline, with headquarters in New Delhi. The airline has an Airbus and Boeing fleet that serves both local and international destinations. Air India has been struggling financially in recent years, and the Indian government is investigating privatisation as a possible solution.
Sabre is a technology firm that offers software solutions to the travel sector, which includes airlines, hotels, and travel agents. Sabre’s software assists airlines in managing bookings, inventory, and pricing, as well as marketing and distribution capabilities.
Air India stated in a statement that, in addition to distribution services, it is using Sabre’s consultation experience to assist establish the best routes for its current and future aircraft.
The purchase price was not revealed.
“The Indian travel market is back, and it’s coming back strong,” said Nipun Aggarwal, Air India’s Chief Commercial & Transformation Officer. “As a result, we’re thrilled to have re-established and strengthened our relationship with Sabre at such an exciting time for Air India and the wider Indian travel market.” This long-term worldwide distribution collaboration will help us achieve our ambitious growth goals while laying the groundwork for our transition to a more dynamic, merchandising-focused model that will unleash the value of Air India’s goods and services.”
Air India, which was purchased from the government by Indian conglomerate Tata while it was burning taxpayers’ money with mounting losses and debt, is seeking a multi-stage transformation strategy to become a “world-class global airline with an Indian heart.”
The flag carrier is growing its fleet and network, updating its client pitch, and increasing operational dependability. Earlier this month, the airline announced the completion of the first phase of its five-year transformation plan, Vihaan. AI. The first stage of the airline’s transformation path was dedicated to resolving legacy challenges and building the groundwork for future expansion.
The new Sabre agreement follows the company’s announcement that it would utilise artificial intelligence-driven chatbots and other efforts as part of its $200 million investment in modernising digital processes.
According to the business, Sabre’s consulting work with Air India involves an in-depth market study, the creation of new hub and schedule structural designs, extensive route network and capacity planning over a 10-year horizon, and the optimisation of fleet assignment throughout its system.
“We are confident that Air India will gain significant value from Sabre’s global network of travel agencies, as well as from our route planning expertise,” said Roshan Mendis, Chief Commercial Officer, Sabre Travel Solutions. “And, with access to Air India’s products and services, our travel agency partners in India and around the world will benefit greatly.”
