22 February 2008

Dynamic packaging 'missing link' claimed

Operators are being offered the capability to dynamically package flights online from budget airlines with transfers and accommodation.

The latest version of the MARS reservations system from Mach Associates is claimed to be the first to offer this function.

The system will only display those flights 'âœ from any airline 'âœ for which the operator has airport transfers set up, whether the booking is being made by an agent, or direct.

This has already enabled first customer Skiweekends.com to move from being a coach-only operator to offering air packages for the first time.

Mach Associates sales director Richard Bristow said: "This is the missing link that brings power back to tour operator because they are no longer dependent on flight allocations from scheduled or charter carriers with their typical seven-day flight patterns.

"We believe it will open up the package market to new companies of the type who have always driven growth in our industry.

"It solves the problem of traditional carriers becoming increasingly reluctant to offer allocations because it is more profitable for them to sell the seats at the last minute.

"MARS constructs the package and controls the components where margin is applied.

"Allowing the operator to include low cost airlines as integral parts of a package allows them to offer competitive priced products on which agents can make commission without the effort and uncertainty of having creating their own packages."

by Phil Davies