Two new internet-based services from Innovata
Two services claiming to aid travel planning on the web have been launched by US-based data aggregator and software services company Innovata.
A hosted timetable called Quicktrip contains the schedules of 900 airlines enabling users to interrogate direct flights and connection options between some 3,500 airports worldwide. It is based on the SRS Database of global airline schedules which is updated weekly.
The SRS Database is marketed in association with IATA, with whom Innovata signed an agreement in 2003 to maintain and market a comprehensive, neutral airline schedules database for the travel industry.
Innovata is also upgrading its Flight Mapping Service with v2.0 due for release later this month. The service utilises latest flash technology to dynamically display airline and airport route networks on a scalable map fully integrated with a timetable display of current schedules. The mapping displays are automatically updated and maintained by linking directly to the SRS Database.
Three airports are live with the mapping service and the company’s aviation division head Richard Thorne predicts that the number of signed up customers will be in double figures within 60 days of launch.
He said: “When we show airlines and airports how we can provide them with a customised and branded service that allows their website visitors to view an entire network on a map, then link through to a timetable that allows them to enter dates of travel and get back schedules options on any city pair on the map; and then have an intelligent link through to a nominated booking engine if required, we get a very enthusiastic reaction.”
Turning to the Quicktrip service, he said: “We know of a number of sites that aggregate low cost carrier schedules and we are aware of many sites that are driven by one of the GDS which means they lack the low cost carrier option. We have not yet come across a freely available timetable service on the web that offers all carrier options in one integrated display.”
Two versions of the Quicktrip timetable are available – one with worldwide schedules and one that allows its partners to nominate a fixed departure or arrival point.
Thorne said: “Our affiliate syndication programme provides free access to the flight planner for any travel related website and offers our affiliate partners the opportunity to share advertising revenues generated from web traffic using the Quicktrip timetable on their websites”.
Report by Phil Davies
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