Travelport GDS, one of the world’s leading global distribution system (GDS) providers, has reinforced its leading position in the Middle East by signing a new participation agreement with regional carrier, Safi Airways. The deal comes as the airline launches its first European service- Frankfurt to Kabul.
 
Operating from a hub in Afghanistan’s capital, Kabul, Safi Airways offers domestic routes to Kandahar, Herat and Mazar-e Sharif as well as international services to Dubai, Kuwait, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. A new secondary hub in Dubai has recently been established to offer the first non-stop services from the UAE to Kandahar and Mazar-e-Sherif. 

The deal with Travelport GDS provides both Galileo and Worldspan-connected travel agents worldwide with access to the most up-to-date fares and routes from the carrier as well as the ability to e-ticket bookings.
 
“Travelport is one of the world’s most important GDS providers and its Galileo platform is the clear market leader in the Middle East. It therefore makes perfect sense for us to capitalize on its undoubted expertise and global reach,” explained Safi Airways chief commercial officer Claus Fischer. “Our thrice-weekly Frankfurt-Kabul service which started in June is further facilitating air travel to Afghanistan.”

Khalid Alkhalidi, Director, Airline Supplier Services EMEA for Travelport GDS added: “Safi Airways is a perfect example of an exciting and very innovative airline and we look forward to working closely with them over the coming months and years. Our extensive distribution network will enable Safi Airways to maximise its global presence and reach out to new markets.”