Sabre’s introduces block airline tool

Sabre Travel Network unveiled the Sabre Group Management Tool, which is new technology that automates the sale and management of group or block airline reservations. The company, which connects travel suppliers and agents through its GDS, said the tool will increase efficiencies for both agencies and airlines. It will also enhance carriers’ inventory control, according to Sabre. The tool’s inventory control feature automatically returns to the airline a pre-defined percentage of unsold inventory by a specified reduction date. It also returns all unsold/unticketed inventory on a preset expiration date. Sabre said the tool also speeds and simplifies the group booking process for travel agents, reducing multiple phone calls and faxes. It allows agencies to request and manage airline block or group space with a minimum of manual intervention. –Report by David Wilkening–