The world of corporate travel has made leaps in terms of technological innovation, even amid economic headwinds and political conflict, according to Neil Geurin, American Airlines’ VP of global sales.
During a PhocusWire studio interview at The Phocuswright Conference, Geurin shared his thoughts on behavioral trends in the space, particularly differences between managed and unmanaged business travel.
"Unmanaged travel is such an interesting space because there are hundreds of thousands of small businesses, just in this country alone, that are flying every day in very different types of programs [other] than a managed travel program, typically with all kinds of differing levels of control or understanding of what the options are or even having options made available to them,” he said.
“What you’re seeing now is new programs coming around that will address those customers.”
Like many of its partners and competitors, American has launched an option for these unmanaged travelers via its AAdvantage Business program.
In the managed space, Geurin said the focus is on the fast-changing online booking tool technology. But for both managed and unmanaged customers, transparency is top of mind.
“What are the options? What am I seeing? What am I not seeing? And how do I get my hands on better content so that I can get better outcomes for my travelers—whether that’s savings or just access to the right flights, the right hotel rooms, whatever it may be.”
Geurin also touched on New Distribution Capability, accessible data in the industry and more in conversation with PhocusWire executive editor Linda Fox.
Watch the full discussion below.
Catching up on corporate travel trends and distribution