KARACHI: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has reached a landmark agreement in distribution with Amadeus, the leading travel technology company, giving PIA full access to Amadeus’ global travel seller network.

Through this new agreement, Amadeus-connected agencies will now be able to book PIA’s full suite of domestic and international inventory through the Amadeus Travel Platform.

“We’ve undertaken a significant transformation program at PIA, and now we’ve found the right distribution partner with global reach to drive our future growth. This deal brings us international presence in markets we didn’t have to date, ensuring that more travel agencies across the globe can book and sell our offer,” said PIA spokesperson Abdullah H. Khan.

Amadeus-connected travel agents will have full and seamless access to PIA’s flight schedules, load changes, seat maps and ancillaries, including real-time updates. With access to the most accurate booking information at their fingertips, Amadeus-affiliated travel sellers will be able to provide the best service possible to their travelers. The rich booking experience for agents and travelers alike will enable agents to drive upsell opportunities and increased revenue for PIA.

This agreement will also enable interlining possibilities for global travelers connecting with most of Pakistan’s cities, including  Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore, and Peshawar; and will add to business traffic, as domestic and global business travelers will be able to book PIA content through Amadeus-connected corporate agents.

Speaking on the occasion, PIA’s Chief Executive Officer, Arshad Malik said that “Especially in the current environment, when there is so much uncertainty, a strong partner like Amadeus gives us the technology and distribution capabilities we need to reach our expansion targets. We have made substantial investments to restructure our business the past year, laying the ground to capitalize on our growth potential in both domestic and international markets, and we’re excited about what our partnership with Amadeus will bring.”

“It’s an honor to be chosen as a long-term distribution partner to Pakistan International Airlines. Our cutting-edge technology and unsurpassed global distribution network are now at PIA’s service, to enable the airline to meet its business goals,” commented Maher Koubaa, Executive Vice President, Airlines, Middle East, Turkey & Africa, Amadeus.-