American aims to change agents’ views of airline
Lucy Huxley
lucy.huxley@
travelweekly.co.uk
American Airlines hosted 300 agents at an event to “change the perception” of the carrier, according to UK and Ireland sales director David Thomas.
Speaking at the Above and
Beyond event in London, which showcased American’s network, seat pitch, flatbeds, inflight entertainment and social media reach, Thomas said: “Sometimes, there is a perception that the US carriers are a bit tired. But American is one of the most profitable airlines in the world and we have been investing huge sums over the past three years to improve our product.” He said American’s business-
class product on its new Boeing 777-300s was “arguably the best across the Atlantic”, with a bigger seat pitch, flatbeds and 220 on-demand films and TV shows.
Transavia signs deal with Travelport to sell new range of fares
Transavia is making a new range of fares available via the Travelport distribution systems. The low-cost carrier, which is part of Air France-KLM, has also signed up to the technology company’s rich-content and branding solution to better control how its services are visually presented and described to agents. Hervé Kozar, chief commercial
24
travelweekly.co.uk 15 October 2015
TRANSAVIA: Services will be better presented to agents
officer of Transavia France, said: “In April, we introduced several improvements and launched new fares to provide our customers with flexibility, greater choice and a wide portfolio of ancillary
“We are definitely closing
the gap on the Middle Eastern carriers,” said Thomas. “But they are subsidised. They don’t have the same cost structure, so it’s difficult to compete head to head because of the subsidies they receive. But we are doing a great job.” He claimed American fared
excellently against the likes of United, Virgin Atlantic and Delta. Thomas confirmed American had
recently restructured its sales team to put more focus on the trade. One person had been responsible for the UK and Ireland, but Tim Isaacs has been brought in as trade channel
“Once we get agents to experience our product, they feel comfortable booking customers with us”
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