600+ Aviation Leaders expected at Horizons 2008 in Bangkok

Amadeus' "Horizons 2008", a global bi-annual forum for airlines, which starts today in Bangkok, expects more than 600 aviation industry leaders to discuss key trends, challenges and new technologies that are impacting the airline industry.

The theme for Horizons 2008 is Airlines 2.0, with a focus on the latest developments in technologies such as Web 2.0, and how these are impacting airlines' business today. Some of the prestigious speakers include Leo van Wijk, Vice-Chairman of KLM/Air France and Chairman of SkyTeam; Tony Fernandes, CEO AirAsia; Carsten Willert, Head of Strategic Planning, Development and Operations of the British Airways website; Edward Nicol, Director Information Management for Cathay Pacific Airways; and Christoph Ganswindt, Senior Vice President of Information Management and CIO, Lufthansa Passenger Airlines.

David Brett, President, Amadeus Asia Pacific, said, "We are thrilled that Bangkok has been selected to host Horizons 2008 ­ a first for Asia. This year's theme, Airlines 2.0, will focus on how airlines can utilize technologies to drive their business growth and geographical reach, as well as maximize operational efficiency."

The forum is expected to generate discussion on topics such as the increase in user-generated content online, changing consumer demands, as well as the evolution in airline business models that the industry is witnessing. In addition to the discussion sessions, Horizons 2008 will showcase new-generation Amadeus technologies designed to support airlines in a rapidly-changing industry.

Damian Hickey, Vice President, Airline Business Group, Amadeus Asia Pacific, said, "The Amadeus Horizons Forum provides an excellent platform for our airline partners to discuss some of the opportunities and challenges facing the industry. Amadeus, as their technology partner, is committed to delivering innovative solutions that address airline evolving needs, reduce costs and increase yield. In a world  where user-generated content and Web 2.0 is set to transform the travel industry as we know it, this year's theme is very pertinent and no doubt will fuel much interesting debate."

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