Ryanair flights are available on Travelport’s Worldspan and Galileo global distribution systems from this week but agents won’t see the lowest fares.
The carrier’s promotional fares remain solely available on ryanair.com and GDS seat prices will be higher than the same seats on the carrier’s site.
However, the move marks a turnaround. Six months ago, Ryanair chief executive Michael O’Leary insisted: “We’re not going back on GDSs.” Last week, he said: “I expect Travelport to be only the first. ”
Ryanair head of groups and corporate travel Lesley Kane confirmed: “The lowest fares will not be on GDSs. Ryanair.com fares will always be the lowest.” She told Travel Weekly: “A fare of €19.99 on our site could be €28.99 on the GDS.”
Ryanair confirmed it is in talks with Amadeus and Sabre. Kane said: “We expect an agreement with one or both the remaining GDSs for participation later this year or early 2015.”
The carrier will launch its first TV advertising campaign this month and unveil a new “no-hassle” website with a streamlined booking process.
Ryanair chief marketing officer Kenny Jacobs said: “We are going to be advertising on TV, digitally and in print in the UK, Ireland, Italy and Spain.”
The move is one of a series as Ryanair promises a new focus on customer service.
Ryanair also plans to launch a business product in May. Kane said: “There will be flexible tickets so passengers can change to an earlier flight.
“They will get priority access through the airport and a bag allowance over 15kg. There will be a premium but it will be a value fare.”
Hays Travel managing director John Hays said:
“The reality is O’Leary has realised the volumes people like us are putting through. It’s got to be good for the industry that it is engaging with the trade.”