Travel companies (along with nearly everyone else) have spent the past several years talking up how important and valuable the data they collect about passengers is. This week two of them saw huge penalties announced for failing to protect that data. Big rewards availalbe down the line, but big risks along the way.
Distribution
Google Flights expands amenities details with Routehappy by ATPCO
The flight amenity info shown on Google Flights is about to get more detailed thanks to an updated 5-year deal with ATPCO
TravelSky plans rich content distribution with ATPCO’s Routehappy data
TravelSky is the latest airfare distribution provider to sign on for rich content from ATPCO’s Routehappy offerings. The move will add hundreds of millions of customers to the enhanced search results solutions.
Oneworld’s digital backbone seeks ancillary revenue boost
Oneworld’s digital backbone middleware hopes to extend beyond the basics in the coming year, offering its members the opportunity to also sell services, not just give them away. Is this the solution to the interline ancillary revenue problem??
CTrip, Routehappy team for improved online shopping experience
Millions of passengers across Asia will soon have access to more and better information when shopping for flights thanks to a new partnership between CTrip and Routehappy by ATPCO.
Solving the Codeshare Conundrum: Travelport, Routehappy, alliances weigh in
Codeshare flights: Great for airlines and confusing for passengers. Multiple groups across the industry are looking to clear up that confusion, exposing better data to travelers and smoothing the marketing message.
Kiwi offers legal support for sketchy flight bookings
Do you hate following the rules? Feel like airlines need to be taught a lesson in what’s really fair when it comes to fares? Online travel site Kiwi.com wants to help out, possibly even including legal counsel.
IATA Coin: A blockchain play by and for the airline world
Airlines transferring funds via blockchain? Turns out this is not a far-fetched, future vision. It is reality today thanks to a cryptocurrency known as the IATA Coin.
United revamps Basic Economy in Transatlantic market
Just six months ago United Airlines introduced a not-quite-Basic Economy fare option for transatlantic travels. Next week the company will complete the transition, formally rebranding the offering as Basic Economy. NOt surprisingly, the new version is even more restrictive than before.
Qantas quits the startup world
Airlines want to invest in emerging technologies. They want access to the startups and to foster those relationships. This is the message delivered around the world as investment funds, incubators and accelerators sprout up. Many of these programs claim success and continue to grow. For Qantas, however, the message is different. Its dedicated venture group dissolved in recent weeks and the accelerator shuttered.