GLOBAL
distribution system Worldspan has enhanced its SecuRate Air fares product to
allow agents to store their negotiated fares in the database.
It
means agents who use the new SecuRate Air Integrated Fare Display can see
published and negotiated fares on one screen.
The
original SecuRate Air product only held published fares. Agents had to search
for negotiated rates separately and compare prices and conditions manually to
find the best deal for their client.
“This
change has been driven by the European market,” said Worldspan senior
vice-president and general manager Mike Parks.
“The
concept of negotiated fares developed in Europe but is now making its way to
the US so we expect this product will be very popular,” he added.
Worldspan
is also unveiling a new version of its corporate on-line booking tool Trip
Manager.
Parks
said there are 150 enhancements, all based on user comments and designed to make
the system easier and quicker to use.
“We
had success selling and installing this product,” said Parks. “The
problem was acceptance. If they could not make a booking quickly and easily,
travellers ignored it and went back to the travel agent.
Parks
said a flight, hotel and car rental booking can be made in under four minutes
on the new version, which is the fastest in the industry.