Etihad ups participation in Worldspan
ETIHAD Airways has increased its participation in the Worldspan global distribution system (GDS) to take advantage of Worldspan Direct Sell technology.
Direct Sell gives Worldspan-connected travel buyers a real-time connection to Etihad Airways’ internal reservations system for up-to-the-minute shopping and booking. The airline also adopted Worldspan electronic ticketing capabilities, providing travel buyers the speed and convenience of issuing e-tickets on Etihad flights via Worldspan.
Etihad Holidays offers ski deals
ETIHAD Holidays, has launched its ski and snowboard brochure for this winter offering passengers a wealth of breaks to some of the most popular resorts in Europe and Lebanon, with prices beginning Dh2075 ($565). This year, each holiday within the programme also offers a vast array of activities for those not wishing to ski or snowboard, ensuring everyone can enjoy the mountain air and scenery to its fullest.
Boeing in talks with Kuwait airlines
BOEING is in talks to sell planes to state carrier Kuwait Airways and private National Aviation Company, Lee Monson, Boeing’s regional sales vice-president, was quoted as saying by the daily Al Qabas. The airline’s fleet, purchased after the 1991 Gulf war, includes 15 Airbus planes and two Boeing 777s. The carrier lost 85 per cent of its assets during the 1990-1991 Iraqi occupation.
‘IATA Day’ focus on safety, efficiency
IATA held its first ‘IATA Day’ in Saudi Arabia last month to review industry developments and stimulate an open dialogue between industry stakeholders to improve aviation efficiency, safety and service levels in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). More than 200 delegates attended. IATA’s efforts in the region in 2006 have led to the shortening of 11 routes saving $28 million.
Gulf Air ups frequent flyer benefits
GULF Air has teamed up with American Airlines in a deal that allows its Frequent Flyer Programme (FFP) members to travel on American Airlines' extensive network of flights to more than 250 destinations in 40 countries, while American Airlines AAdvantage members benefit by earning and redeeming miles on Gulf Air’s network of 50 destinations in 30 countries. Meanwhile, Gulf Air has also partnered with Accor Hotels Group so its FFP members can earn miles when staying at any of the Sofitel, Novotel and Mercure hotels.