Star Alliance Shifts into Higher Distribution Gear

Star Alliance is selecting G2 SwitchWorks and ITA Software to provide alternative content access platforms (ACAPs) to the member carriers.

The new distribution technologies will first be implemented in North America and are to be expanded to Asia and Europe within the next 18 months.

Under this umbrella agreement, the member carriers will now enter into detailed discussions with the providers in order to build a tailor-made solution for their specific requirements, with the ultimate aim of better serving the needs of the international business travelers.

The alliance concluded contracts with two vendors which are the culmination of a process which began in June 2005.

In an effort to reduce the $2 billion which the 16 member carriers spend annually on GDS fees, Star Alliance had begun looking into alternative distribution channels. A combination of market deregulation and new technology had created the right scenario in which these new providers have become real alternatives.