Arab carriers sign up for decade of distribution services

A group of 15 airlines from the Middle East & North Africa has signed a 10-year framework agreement with Amadeus for distribution services. The deal was negotiated and led by the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), which represents 34 airlines in the region. The agreement concluded an 18-month process during which AACO’s “taskforce for future distribution strategies” assessed several technology and distribution providers’ abilities to support the long-term needs of its member airlines. Amadeus said the partnership would drive economies of scale and technological efficiencies, as well as supporting the airlines’ vision for future distribution paths. The participating AACO carriers will now work with the global distribution system provider to explore how further to develop and maximize the potential of its travel agency network, including enhanced merchandising and retailing capabilities.<br/>