Global Distribution ( GDS ) Systems

A global distribution system (GDS) is a computerized network system owned or operated by a company that enables transactions between travel industry service providers, mainly airlines, hotels, car rental companies, and bus companies. The GDS mainly uses real-time inventory for service providers. 

GDS is a worldwide "Global Distribution System" computerized reservation network used as a single point of access for accommodating airline seats, hotel rooms, rental cars, and other travel-related items by travel agents, online reservation sites, and large corporations.

Global Distribution (GDS) Systems

● Amadeus

● Sabre

● Galileo

GDS Integration solutions

● Flights GDS Integration

● Hotels GDS Integration

● Car rental GDS integration

● Bus ticket booking

Global Distribution Systems (GDS) are computerized networks that facilitate transactions between travel agents and travel service providers. These systems serve as a central repository of travel-related information, including flight schedules, availability, pricing, hotel inventory, car rental options, and more.

Here are some key points about GDS systems:

1. Function: GDS systems act as a bridge between travel agents and travel service providers, enabling agents to access and book travel-related services on behalf of their clients. They consolidate information from various providers into a single interface, allowing agents to compare options and make reservations in real time.

   
   

2. Providers: GDS systems typically connect travel agents to a wide range of travel service providers, including airlines, hotels, car rental companies, cruise lines, and tour operators. Major GDS providers include Amadeus, Sabre, Travelport (which operates Galileo and Worldspan), and SITA's Airfare Distribution.

   
   

3. Flight Reservation: GDS systems provide real-time access to flight schedules, seat availability, fares, and other flight-related information from multiple airlines. Agents can search, compare, and book flights on different carriers, allowing them to provide customers with a variety of options.

   
   

4. Hotel Reservation: GDS systems offer a comprehensive database of hotel properties worldwide. Agents can access information on room availability, rates, and amenities, and make hotel reservations for their clients through the GDS interface. This streamlines the booking process and provides agents with an extensive range of accommodation options.

   
   

5. Car Rental and Other Services: GDS systems also integrate car rental companies, allowing agents to check vehicle availability, and rates, and make reservations. Additionally, GDS systems may offer access to other travel services such as rail tickets, travel insurance, and ground transportation options.

   
   

6. Pricing and Inventory Management: GDS systems help travel service providers manage their pricing and inventory. Providers can set and update fares, allocate seats or rooms, and control availability across multiple distribution channels. This ensures that the information agents receive through the GDS is accurate and up to date.

   
   

7. Reservation Management: GDS systems enable travel agents to manage their clients' reservations efficiently. Agents can modify bookings, process cancellations or amendments, retrieve e-tickets or hotel vouchers, and view booking details and itineraries from a centralized platform.

   
   

8. Distribution Channel: GDS systems serve as a significant distribution channel for travel service providers. They allow providers to reach a broad network of travel agents worldwide, increasing their visibility and accessibility to potential customers.

   
   

9. Ancillary Services: GDS systems have evolved to include ancillary services, such as the ability to offer additional services and upsell during the booking process. Agents can offer customers add-ons like seat upgrades, extra baggage allowance, travel insurance, or other value-added services.

   
   

10. Integration: GDS systems can be integrated with other travel technology solutions, such as online booking engines, corporate travel tools, and back-office systems. This integration streamlines workflows, improves efficiency, and ensures seamless data exchange between different systems.

GDS systems play a vital role in the travel industry, connecting travel agents with travel service providers and facilitating the booking process. They provide a centralized platform for agents to access comprehensive travel information, enabling them to offer a wide range of options to their clients and streamline their operations.