Just in time to help agents cope with the proliferation of unbundled air serves, Sabre Travel Network has launched Air Total Pricing, a tool that will bring transparency and clarity to travel shopping by displaying airline ancillary fees.
The technology is offered exclusively through the Sabre global distribution system (GDS), travel agents – including both travel management companies and online travel agencies – worldwide can now view specific air ancillaries based on their customer’s preferences, provide a summary of ancillary fees and access ancillary charges based on a passenger’s frequent flier status.
The tool includes an all-inclusive price for air travel, including both the traditional fare as well as the charges for things such as checked baggage, seat selection, and lounge access. Sabre Connected travel agents can begin using Sabre Air Total Pricing on Sept. 17.
“Today’s launch of Sabre Air Total Pricing is an important first step toward providing travelers a truly transparent shopping experience, so they can select the best travel option and value, recognizing that what travelers need can vary from trip to trip,” said Chris Kroeger, senior vice president, Marketing, Sabre Travel Network. “Providing this kind of detailed information is what our travel agents tell us they need and what consumers reasonably demand.”
Sabre compiles the ancillary fee data from airlines filing their fares via ATPCo Optional Services and an internal database to display a wide variety of ancillary services. Sabre Connected travel agents will be able to shop for a number of ancillary services including fees for baggage, lounge access, in-flight entertainment, pre-reserved seats, Internet access, and meals, among many others.
Once airlines begin sharing complete ancillary services data via industry technology standards, travel agencies and consumers will receive more comprehensive and timely information.
This marks the first phase of Sabre Air Total Pricing’s capabilities, Sabre reports. In the coming months, Sabre Connected travel agents will be able to display, book and sell a wide variety of ancillary services, settling these through traditional processes or directly with the airline.
“This is a first step developed for travel agents and consumers so they have complete insight into their true travel costs,” Kroeger said. “Having this detailed information allows agents to advise customers on what services are available to them and what, if any, fees apply.”
Visit www.sabre.com.