In reading articles about the distribution of travel services, it’s not uncommon to come across the phrase “traditional GDS.” In a 21st Century context, “traditional” suggests the old way of doing things – more Betamax than Blu-ray. Although I don’t think this is actually true of the modern GDS and the advanced technology that drives our business, it’s a reminder that the future of our industry depends on more than the scale and presence the GDSs have today. We have to evolve to meet the growing and changing needs of our customers, and this means changing some of the ways we have traditionally done business.
The travel industry today is no different than any other industry; it is driven by an explosion of information, new and more flexible technologies, and an almost insatiable demand from companies and consumers alike for rich and varied content, presented in a way that enables them to make an informed travel choice. This is driving significant change for our suppliers and customers, and GDS providers need to be equally if not more fleet of foot in anticipating their needs, delivering services ahead of the curve and doing so in an open environment.
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Gordon Wilson
Gordon Wilson is Deputy CEO of Travelport and President and CEO of Travelport GDS, responsible for its global activities across 160 countries. Travelport GDS is a provider of next-generation IT solutions for airlines worldwide, as well as innovative data intelligence solutions for airlines and other companies that rely on travel industry intelligence for growth and success.
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The global recession has taken its toll on airlines, hotels and the rest of the travel industry. Travelport market research data show air traffic bookings in June were down 12% from a year ago. But for consumers – particularly leisure travelers – the result is a very attractive summer travel season as airlines and hotels entice travelers with lower fares and promotional packages.
It’s all about supply and demand, and there’s a lot more travel supply than there is demand today. Hotel occupancy rates in May fell to 56% in the U.S, 59% in Europe and 61% in Asia Pacific*. June aircraft load factors at several major airlines in the US were stable or even slightly higher than last year, but that is on the back of substantial capacity cuts (a feat which is not easily replicated on the lodging side). Some major European airlines saw load factor drops in June.**
To generate more demand, airlines and hotels are cutting prices on key routes and in key markets. Read more »
Jeff Clarke
Jeff Clarke is Chief Executive Officer and President of Travelport and serves as a Director on the Travelport Board of Directors, appointed in May 2006. He also serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Orbitz Worldwide.
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