Amadeus has announced the launch of a new pre-bookable ground transfer solution available on desktop, mobile and web service applications
The distribution giant cites the Phocuswright 'Hail This!' report which found that approximately 54 million travellers around the world used a pre-arranged transfer service.
The Amadeus Transfer Hub covers more than 1000 destinations in 142 markets and relies on ground transfer partners including Blacklane, MYCAB Travel, Talixo, TaxiTender, and World Airport Transfer.
Further providers will be added in the coming months.
Clare de Bono, director of product and innovation at Amadeus UK says:
"A key advantage of the Amadeus Transfer Hub is its automatic integration with the rest of the itinerary, meaning travel agents can deliver a superior service while earning commissions from providers who are eager to partner with them."
In June, Finnair began tying-in Blacklane car transfers to its flights booking engine, managed through a single PNR.
The ancillary sale is facilitated by Amadeus’ Transfers tool.
Startups are also helping airlines add ground transport options to their ancillary services, including bus transfers.
In March, German start-up Distribusion Technologies highlighted the benefit to airlines of providing door-to-door options for leisure and budget travellers.
Travelport is also investing in ground transportation with chief executive Gordon Wilson talking of its partnership with MobaCar in a May earnings call.
Ireland-based MobaCar provides connectivity to car rental companies and is part of Travelport's strategy to create an offering for car rental similar to its Rooms and More alternative accommodation platform.
Airports also see ground transportation as a way to enhance the passenger offering.
Munich airport is implementing a new mobility as a service capability to its “Passnger App” which includes a variety of ground transport and traffic information.
The airport hopes to extend the feature as part of a partnership with other German airports.
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Booking door-to-door is the next opportunity for airlines