Travel companies are divided over the importance of mobile technology as a distribution tool, with Qantas admitting it will be a follower rather than a leader in the space.
Many observers are predicting a surge in the number of people booking travel through mobile devices as the use of smartphones becomes more widespread.
John Lonergan, head of direct channels and Qantas.com, told the EyeforTravel conference the flag carrier was interested in the technology, but admitted there were barriers to expansion. Qantas has mobile technology available for customers to view flights schedules and booking details, but it does not take bookings.
“There are a few phases. Checking in comes before booking on your phone,” Lonergan said. “The key thing is payment. Transferring money on phones is probably a bridge too far at the moment.”
Lonergan added Qantas would “be a follower” in the space, waiting to see how others address the issue.
Earlier, Intrepid founder and chief executive Darrell Wade said the company was not investing in mobile technology. He said it was less relevant because of the long average lead times experienced by Intrepid.
“I’m not necessarily convinced mobile technology will play a role in that long term decision making, though I might be wrong,” Wade said.
The relatively high cost of data plans in Australia could also be a constraint on growth, observers said.
Oodles founder Steve Sherlock said the car rental market was tailor-made for mobile booking technology, with the company working on an iPhone application. “I’m pretty sure we’ll be active soon,” Sherlock said.
20 November 2009
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