As a fellow travel business owner or expert, you might struggle with the complexities of Global Distribution Systems. First, let’s define them as worldwide networks connecting travel providers, agencies, and customers. And yes, they have nuances that can keep even a knowledgeable person confused.
We’re here to guide you through the main things to look at and the recent updates to help you choose an optimal option. Let’s break down what’s with GDS for 2025, how it affects your business, and how to choose between the big three. What are they?
What GDSs dominate the market?
Among GDS systems, three main players instantly catch an eye: Amadeus, Sabre, and Travelport. Each offers a unique mix of content, coverage, connectivity, and software solutions.
Amadeus stands out with its extensive coverage. They connect to over 400 airlines, covering 82% of the world’s scheduled flights. Their hotel inventory is equally impressive, with access to more than a million properties. Beyond air and accommodations, Amadeus partners with 90 railways in 170 countries and offers 300,000+ tours and activities.
Sabre, born from American Airlines, excels in airline solutions. They link to 400+ airlines, with 170 offering ancillaries. Their lodging options are vast, with over 2 million choices. Sabre also covers ground transportation well, with car rentals across 42,000 locations and connections to 9 major rail networks and 50+ operators.
Travelport, the result of a merger between Galileo, Worldspan, and Apollo, has been making waves with its partnerships. They provide access to 460 airlines, with 340 branded fare options. Thanks to a strategic alliance with Booking.com, they offer over 1 million property choices. Their ground transportation options include 46 car rental brands and 25 rail operators.
But content and geographical coverage aren’t the only factors to define what global distribution system is suitable for you. Let’s see what tools and solutions each of them has.
What tools and software do the three GDSs offer?
Amadeus GDS offers a great blend of technology solutions to make researching and booking its content a breeze (and a profitable one):
- Amadeus Selling Platform Connect user-friendly web booking tool
- Amadeus Ticket Changer automating rebooking and reissuing
- Amadeus Revenue Integrity allowing for seat management optimization
- Cytric Travel and Expense automating enterprise travel management and reporting
Sabre also boasts significant tools and solutions for a simpler and more efficient experience:
- Sabre Red 360 comprehensive booking platform to cover the needs of businesses of varied sizes
- Sabre Dev Studio API integration hub turning functionality integration into a fast and easy playground
- AirVision airline management suite that optimizes ticket booking, exchange, and in-flight add-ons
- Beyond NDC Program integrates more standardized and varied travel content.
In terms of technology advancements, Travelport is a great option too. It gives some unique and flexible features:
- Travelport+ next-gen retail platform is used by 80% of overall Travelport clients due to diverse content and easy learning curve
- Travelport Insights market analysis tool helps you analyze your sales, marketing, and operations
- Travelport Smartpoint is a desktop booking application that your agents can use to access all the main functionalities
- Travelport Mobile Agent expands your travel management abilities with an easier availability
So there’s a lot to choose from. And the best part is that all three of these systems evolve constantly. Since the first ones were created in the 1960s, the evolution has been incredible. What’s going on now, and how will it affect your business in 2025?
What are the emerging trends in GDS?
As with any technology in the ever-shifting travel sector, GDSs are not resistant to the trends shaping it. Several trends are hinting on the future of these systems:
GDS providers use AI and Machine Learning to enhance personalization and efficiency.
With the rise of mobile bookings, user-friendly mobile interfaces are becoming a priority.
The systems are harnessing data to provide more accurate predictions and insights.
There’s a growing focus on both the leisure and group travel sectors, with a main accent on customizable options.
GDS providers are developing more efficient systems for the cruise industry.
But perhaps the most significant development in recent years has been the rise of New Distribution Capability (NDC). Let’s talk about how the big three are embracing them.
What else to look at to choose a GDS?
With all these options and features, how do you choose the right GDS for your business? Here are some factors to consider:
- Content and coverage. Look at the breadth and depth of travel content offered. Does it cover the regions and types of travel services you need?
- API capabilities. If you’re planning to integrate GDS into your own systems, examine the API offerings. How robust and flexible are they? Are there payment gateway integrations?
- NDC integration. Consider how well the GDS has incorporated NDC. This could be crucial for accessing the latest airline content and offers.
- User interface. For travel agents, the ease of use of the booking interface can significantly impact productivity.
- Additional tools. Look at the suite of tools offered. Do they align with your business needs?
- Pricing structure. GDS pricing can be complex. Consider factors like transaction volume, contract length, and content mix.
- Support and training. Evaluate the level of support and training provided. A good support system can make a big difference in your day-to-day operations.
- Future roadmap. Look at the company’s plans for future development. Are they investing in areas that align with your business goals?
Stay informed, and you’ll be well-positioned to pick a system that helps your business thrive in this ever-changing industry.
The bottom line: make a responsible choice
Integrating a global distribution system requires time, effort, and costs. So choosing the right one is a strategic decision. Take the time to thoroughly evaluate your options, consider the factors we gave you in this guide, and use all the demos and trials that a GDS representative will offer (our personal advice). Or contact a travel software development company for the best results.
Also, don’t forget it’s a completely new way to manage your business, so be prepared to educate yourself and your team on the existing and upcoming functionalities these global systems bring to the table.