BA forges distribution deals with Amadeus and Worldspan

British Airways has sealed new distribution deals with both Amadeus and Worldspan. Agents who make bookings through the GDSs from March 1 will not incur a £3 per sector distribution fee being imposed by the airline. But Amadues confirmed that agents will have to pay a 95 pence fee in four specific low fare classes on UK domestic and intra-European routes. The aim is to cut BA’s distribution costs while maintaining the distribution of low fares through agents. BA clinched similar arrangements with Galileo and Sabre last month. Amadeus is to launch a Low Fare Content product which will enable the GDS to distribute all BA fares, including web fares, without the £3 sector distribution fee. Agents must “opt in” to the new GDS agreements or face paying the carrier’s £3 sector supplement. Travel agents that decide not to subscribe to the Low Fare Content product will still get access to BA’s full inventory of available seats but will pay BA the previously announced £3 per sector distribution fee for all bookings made in the UK, Amadeus said.