News in Brief: Tuesday February 4

A new tool from Amadeus that automates the air ticket reissuing process will save time and reduce the possibility of errors, according to the technology provider.

Amadeus Ticket Changer automates ticket exchanges for cabin, class, route or date changes, regardless of whether the ticket is unused, partially used or has been reissued previously, Amadeus IT Pacific managing director Tony Carter explained.

“We recognise that complex ticket reissues are not a travel agent’s favourite task,” he said.

“That is why we are very excited to launch Amadeus Ticket Changer. It really does take the strain out of the reissue process and gives agents more time to focus on providing great service.”

Australian travel agents can try Amadeus Ticket Changer free of charge until 28 February 2014.

Former Rail Europe manager Australasia Richard Leonard will join Adventure World in mid-February in the newly created role of head of product.

“We are thrilled to welcome Richard to our growing team in this newly created role,” managing director Fiona Hunt said. “He’s a wonderful fit for Adventure World having travelled extensively through Asia, Latin America, Middle East and Africa as well as speaking Spanish fluently.”

Irish budget carrier Ryanair has confirmed plans to distribute via the global distribution system (GDS) in a bid to broaden its distribution mix.

Chief executive Michael O’Leary revealed that the airline is currently “in talks” with several suppliers with Ryanair’s low cost fares to over in “one or more” GDSs by mid-year.

The revelation comes as the LCC reported loss of 35.2 million euro for the third quarter.

Melbourne to Phuket will become the latest Jetstar route to be serviced by a 787 with the aircraft initially operating one flight per week from February 9.

All three weekly flights between the ports will transition to the Dreamliner from March 30.

Jetstar already operates the 787 on its three weekly flights between Sydney and Phuket with Singapore, Tokyo, Osaka and Bangkok to follow as more Dreamliners join the Jetstar fleet.

Trafalgar has strengthened Deborah Hanley as its new sales manager for South Australia and the Northern Territory with immediate effect.

Hanley comes to the escorted touring firm with more than 25 years of experience with organisations including Malasia Airlines, Cover-More and, most recently, Wendy Wu Tours.

The AOT Group has extended its STARS Rewards Program to also include bookings by agents through Air New Zealand Holidays and Territory Discoveries as well as Sunlover Holidays.

The scheme is free to join with members to earn one point for every dollar of land product booked, excluding taxes and non-commissionable land product.

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