Amadeus to Launch Full Content Access Program

Amadeus, a technology and global distribution systems provider, on Wednesday announced the launch of Amadeus Content Plus, a content access program that claims to guarantee U.S.-based customers full content without airline surcharges. The program beings January 1, 2007 and all Amadeus subscribers in the United States are automatically enrolled. The content however, comes with a price tag of 80 cents per booked segment on all carriers that participate in the Amadeus global distribution system, which include America West, Delta, Northwest, United and US Airways. "We have always maintained that the marketplace would ultimately determine the success of any business model or program," Kay Urban, president of CEO of Amadeus North America said in a statement. "Adoption rates of other similar programs have shown that the market has accepted program access fees in favor of a commitment to full content and protection from airline segment surcharges."