Abacus International further established its market leadership position in Asia by signing an agreement qualifying Abacus as a Competitive Booking Source for Air Astana.
 
This enhanced partnership brings Abacus-connected travel agents a host of benefits, which includes complete access to Air Astana’s full flight information and fares as part of its Competitive Booking Source (CBS) programme, without being subject to the Commission Booking Deductible (CBD) that will accompany non-qualified GDS bookings beyond 1 January 2011.
 
Speaking at the official signing ceremony in Kazakhstan, Mr. Robert Bailey, President and CEO of Abacus International, said the company was proud to be the first GDS to qualify for Air Astana’s CBS programme.
 
“Kazakhstan is a very important market for Abacus and recognition by its national carrier solidifies our position as a travel leader in Asia. To encourage the market to promote travel with Air Astana, we will be launching a series of attractive promotional campaigns where Abacus-connected travel agencies will be rewarded for bookings made,” said Mr. Bailey.
 
As the first CBS programme vendor, Abacus forecasts that its extensive distribution and strong presence throughout the region will bring a positive increase of at least 20% to Air Astana’s total distribution in 2011. 
 
Mr. Peter Foster, President and CEO of Air Astana, said “By signing this agreement Abacus has become the first GDS to qualify in our CBS programme launched on 1 July 2010.  By qualifying and becoming an Air Astana CBS, Abacus ensures that travel agents using their product will not be subject to a CBD as of 1 January 2011. The fact that Abacus has been the GDS to finalise discussions ahead of other candidates is appreciated by Air Astana.
 
“Abacus has been consistently supportive of Air Astana and this is something that we deeply appreciate. This is a trend we are confident of seeing continue, with travel agents able to access full information and fares through Abacus’ innovative and easy to use solutions,” Mr. Foster said.
 
Partnerships, such as the one with Air Astana, have also assisted Kazakhstan’s travel industry to grow and booking made through GDS are increasing at 24% year-on-year. Specifically, Air Astana is growing 16% of bookings via the GDS channel, a testament of the continued successful Kazakhstan’s travel sector enjoys.