Amadeus To Launch Opt-In Program

Amadeus today joined its global distribution system competitors in adopting an opt-in model, telling clients it soon would launch a "content access" program for its United States-based subscribers. The last GDS holdout to adopt the model, Amadeus said it soon would release details of its program.

In a memo to clients today, Amadeus noted that the market is "willing to accept program access fees in order to ensure a commitment to full content and protection from airline segment surcharges."

"In response to airline surcharges, our GDS competitors were quick to announce opt-in programs that would immediately affect travel agencies," said the memo signed by Amadeus North America president Kay Urban and senior vice president of sales and marketing Tom Cates. "Amadeus has always believed that the marketplace would ultimately determine the success of any model. With regard to a charge for full content access without additional airline surcharge, the direction of the marketplace is now clear."

The GDS said it is in the midst of coming to full terms with major domestic carriers. Amadeus this summer signed a new content deal with US Airways and late last month reached agreements with Continental and Northwest to extend terms while working to come to a more comprehensive deal. The GDS also has put in place protections to shield customers from $3.50 per-ticket surcharges imposed by American and Delta. Amadeus has an ongoing agreement with United for access to full content, according to a spokesperson for the GDS.

"We continue to work diligently and responsibly with our North American airline customers to reach long-term agreements for full content," the memo said. "As our airline negotiations are not yet complete, we cannot provide further details regarding our content access program at this time."