Shandong Airlines signs on to Abacus' Direct Connect Availability Service

Shandong Airlines, part of the state-owned Shandong Aviation Group in China, has become the eighth Chinese carrier to sign on to Abacus International's highest level of inventory participation this month.

Abacus' airline connectivity services allow airlines to maximise yields by providing travel agents with direct access to their available inventory. Through the Direct Connect Availability (DCA) service, Abacus-connected travel agents can receive real-time flight status and seat availability information directly from a subscribing airlines' own reservation system. DCA also gives airlines control of point of sale quota allocation by deciding which flights can be accessed.

"The DCA service is like a supermarket. We provide the facilities for airlines to "display their wares". We also give travel agents a resource for shopping around for what best suits their customers' needs. Through DCA, airlines have control of the supply and demand for seats, so they can better cater to their customers' needs. Travel agents have instant access to what's available," said Mr. Li Dongqi, General Manager, China Representative Office, Abacus International Pte Ltd.

"The China market is growing at a rapid pace and we believe that by joining Abacus, we are better positioned to take advantage of this growth and expand our business in the process. Also, considering Abacus' popularity with agents in the Asia Pacific, we expect that this partnership will allow more agents and passengers to enjoy our products," said Mr Yu Bin, Director of Marketing & Sales, Shandong Airlines.