Travel facilitator Abacus International has announced the first GDS partnership in India´s low cost carrier (LCC) market with the launch of its distribution of fares for Deccan. (12/14/2007)
Passengers will be able to book their travel on Deccan through Abacus-connected travel agents with immediate effect.
"With LCCs expected to double their share of the India market from their current 35% of the market to 70% by 2010, this is definitely a market we wish to lead in. We are excited by the prospects of working with Deccan to escalate their growth within Asia´s vibrant travel industry," Kenneth Low, Vice President, South Asia, Abacus International said. "This pioneer partnership provides an ideal launch pad to enable Abacus-connected travel agencies to share in India´s LCC fuelled growth."
Ramki Sundaram, Officiating CEO, Deccan said the adoption of the GDS model also allows the airline to significantly expand and distribute their capabilities while keeping costs associated with it low.
"The Deccan – Abacus tie up marks the first GDS adoption by an airline in the India´s LCC market space. Distribution channels are overarching to our growth strategy. We have consistently focused on exploring innovative and effective distribution channels," said Sundaram. "As a result of this partnership, Deccan will now be available via more than 15,000 Abacus travel agency gateway locations."
As the LCC with the largest fleet and greatest number of destinations across India, Deccan needed a GDS partner to effectively support and grow their business throughout India, said Charmaine Ng, Managing Director, Abacus Distribution Systems (India) Pvt Ltd.
Deccan joins the likes of low cost carriers such as Air Asia and Jetstar Asia, in distributing fares to Abacus´ 15,000 travel agency locations in 24 markets throughout the region.
