Sabre to implement V Australia e-ticketing in the U.S.

V Australia has chosen Sabre as its first Global Distribution System (GDS) partner to implement e-ticketing in the U.S. market. Through the partnership, all Sabre Connected travel agents in the US can now access full e-ticketing capabilities via the Sabre GDS when booking tickets on V Australia.

Virtually all tickets issued worldwide through the Sabre GDS are now electronic, up from 90% in June 2007. More than 200 airlines are already able to issue e-tickets through the Sabre GDS, up from 161 a year ago. Of these, more than 150 have joined Sabre Airline Solutions' Interline Electronic Ticketing Hub. This allows them to establish interline e-ticketing with each other more quickly and easily than if they had to establish bilateral e-ticketing agreements and direct communication links. It also incorporates full support for third-party ground handlers, critical to many airlines in Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

Earlier this year, V Australia and Sabre Travel Network signed a multi-year distribution agreement that will allow the airline's fares and inventory to be made available to all Sabre Connected travel agents worldwide.

"Sabre is excited about this opportunity to advance V Australia’s product and customer service. At the same time, this event marks progress in IATA’s call for a 100% e-ticketing environment for the industry," said Hans Belle, Vice President, General Manager – Asia Pacific, Sabre Travel Network.

V Australia is a new Australia-based international airline owned by the Virgin Blue Group. The airline’s inaugural flight between Sydney and Los Angeles will depart December 15, 2008. The airline will also launch direct flights between Brisbane, Queensland and Los Angeles, California, from March 1, 2009. The carrier will operate Boeing 777-300ER aircraft configured with International Business Class, International Premium Economy Class and International Economy class.

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