Iberia plumps for Sabre

Spanish flag carrier Iberia has struck a technology deal with Sabre despite its ownership share of GDS rival Amadeus. Iberia will take four components of Sabre’s airline solutions offering to power the carrier’s network and schedule management. Sabre will also consult with Iberia on hub structure, including hub design, fleet analysis and route profitability. “These tools will allow us to optimize our schedule across our entire network to ensure we fly the most reliable and profitable schedule possible,” said Iberia head of network management, Jose Bolorinos. Other airlines using Sabre technology include Air France, British Airways, Alitalia and Lufthansa. Iberia is one of three carriers, alongside Air France and Lufthansa, which have a stake in Amadeus. The GDS agreed to a leveraged buy-out by BC Partners and Cinven, managers of two of Europe’s largest buyout funds in January, but the three airlines will still retain an interest in the business. Report by Ginny McGrath