Ryanair’s plan to target business travellers by distributing through GDSs as early as this summer has been “cautiously welcomed” by the Guild of Travel Management Companies.
The move is a step forwards for the budget airline in its bid to build confidence with the business travel sector, however more is required, according to the GTMC.
Chief executive Paul Wait said: “Ryanair has a long way to go in convincing business travellers that it is a viable airline for their needs. However, in a short space of time they have made steps in the right direction to demonstrate that they are putting their money where their mouth is.
“We have seen new flexible tickets, reserved seating and fast track options through selected airports, all of which are small movements towards attracting more interest from the GTMC’s members.
“There are further key challenges to address such as the destination mix – this needs to improve in order for Ryanair to be a real contender in the business travel market.
“Adding to the reputation challenges that Ryanair already has, the airline does suffer from dismissing the business travel market even when their competitors were beginning to take it seriously and reporting strong revenue returns. TMCs reward those airlines that best serve their needs with great loyalty.”
He added: “Ryanair’s biggest job is convincing the GTMC’s members that it is more than losses that are forcing them to address the business travel sector. We need to see and feel that they want to be a strong partner to the community, are engaged in our needs and understand our concerns.
“Based on the announcements made to date, Ryanair is making headway in the right direction.
“But we will remain unconvinced until they commit to investing in the products and serviced required by both travel managers and the business travellers themselves.”