Virgin reports smooth Sabre switch

Virgin reports smooth Sabre switch
By admin


Virgin Australia's transition to its new SabreSonic platform has taken place with little reported disruption, the airline has confirmed.

Passengers were told last week to arrive at airports earlier than normal and warned that some disruptions may occur as the airline shifted its booking systems from its former Navitaire platform over the weekend.

Some airports, such as Los Angeles' LAX, Melbourne International and Adelaide did report longer queues.

But Virgin Australia spokesperson Emma Copeman revealed many airports "ran more smoothly than expected".

"We think having extra staff in our airport terminals and proactively communicating to customers about getting to the airport early has helped," she said.

On time performance over the weekend was above 80% for both days, she said.

The next week will see any further teething troubles ironed out, as the 4000 staff members trained to use the new system get to grips with its use in a live environment.

Virgin warned the check-in process may be "slower than usual" but is putting on more than 30% additional staff in airport terminals and handing out refreshments to attempt to minimise inconvenience.

Meanwhile, Viva! Holidays said that it is working to rectify some "known issues" with the airline, with a solution expected in the next few days, but confirmed agents can now recommence booking Virgin Australia flights via easyway.

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