Delta Air Lines is aiming to raise its profile in the UK after partnering with the GTMC together with its transatlantic partner of 18 months, Virgin Atlantic.
They join other airlines including British Airways, American Airlines, easyJet and Etihad in showing a commitment to travel management companies, said GTMC chief executive Paul Wait.
"We are thrilled to have the Virgin Atlantic/Delta joint venture join as industry partners. It is a critical time for airlines and TMCs in the business travel sector with some airlines not valuing the crucial role that TMCs perform in the selling, servicing and distribution of airlines’ products and services," he said.
"Those airline partners within the GTMC, the voice of business travel, are making a clear statement and commitment in support of the GTMC members and third party distribution."
Rob Wilkinson, Delta’s general manager for global corporates and agencies EMEA said: "We are pleased to be working with GTMC in conjunction with Virgin Atlantic, as this relationship will enable us to continue to raise awareness of the Delta / Virgin joint venture as well as strengthen Delta’s brand in the UK as we work with the TMCs on growing our network."
Chris Goring, head of TMC and SME sales at Virgin Atlantic added: "It’s key that we recognise the important role that TMCs play in our business and we look forward to working closely with the GTMC. By working with such a respected business travel organisation, we’re confident that this is the beginning of what will be an extremely fruitful partnership between our joint venture, the GTMC and its members."
