Travelport Launches Update to Unified Travelport Plus Platform

Travelport has launched the latest iteration of its Travelport Plus platform, which includes simplified access to New Distribution Capability content and new self-service tools for both agents and travelers.

The recent update provides “simplified access” to content from multiple sources, including NDC content via the connections Travelport has been establishing with carriers. Travelport said it is the only global distribution system so far to have signed NDC distribution deals with all three major European airline groups, and it has established NDC connections with American Airlines, Emirates, Qantas and Singapore Airlines. Travelport also has upgraded its connectivity with Hilton to add more details around room, rate and rule displays.

In addition, the platform update has added a Trip Manager portal through which travelers can perform such self-services as seat selection, automatic check-in and paying for meals and bags. For agents, enhancements to the Smartpoint desktop tool include customized itinerary quotes and capabilities assisting in complex ticketing and exchanges, according to Travelport.

The update also includes APIs that Travelport says make offers and brand comparisons clearer for agents, including making upsell offers with NDC more easily identifiable. For hotel bookings, the update has added a self-service rules engine where agents can customize content rules such as removing non-negotiated or non-commissionable rates.

Travelport launched Travelport Plus last year as the GDS that eventually will become its sole platform, replacing Apollo, Galileo and Worldspan. Travelport CEO Greg Webb told The Beat upon that announcement that it would upgrade its customers to the platform as part of a “multi-year investment.”

Michael B. Baker  www.businesstravelnews.com