Amadeus signs JetBlue to long-term Agreement
New distribution agreement provides JetBlue's full content to all Amadeus users around the globe
MIAMI, November 1, 2006: Amadeus, a global leader in technology and distribution solutions for the travel and tourism industry, today announced that it has signed a long-term distribution agreement with JetBlue Airways (Nasdaq: JBLU) which will enable the carrier to extend its reach and connect to all Amadeus users worldwide.
As a result of the agreement, all Amadeus users can now access and book fares and inventory that JetBlue makes available to the public through its internal reservation system and its consumer Web sites, as well as through third-party Web sites.
"One of our goals at JetBlue is to expand our distribution not only throughout the United States, but especially in key European and Latin American markets," said Noreen Courtney-Wilds, Director of Sales and Distribution, JetBlue Airways. "As our strategic partner, Amadeus delivers the distribution reach and next-generation technology that will help us achieve our long-term business objectives."
Courtney-Wilds said expanded distribution will be key for JetBlue as they seek to significantly increase their bookings from corporate and international travelers. JetBlue has recently added routes to Nassau, Bermuda, Cancun and Aruba, and is considering expanding their network through innovative partnerships with international airlines.
"We are particularly excited to have JetBlue content available to all of our travel agencies around the world. It further validates the value we bring in enhanced sales to all airlines, including nearly 50 of the world's low cost carriers now available in Amadeus," said Peter von Moltke, Senior Vice President of the Airline Business Group for Amadeus North America.
Von Moltke added that this agreement is further evidence of Amadeus' commitment to serving the needs of all its customers.
"Our focus continues to be not only helping our airline partners stay competitive by providing the distribution and technology to help them increase revenues and advance their growth, but also providing integrated access to the widest range of relevant content to our agency customers," said von Moltke.
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Notes to the editors
About Amadeus
Amadeus is the chosen technology partner for providers, sellers, and buyers of travel. The company provides distribution, IT and point-of-sale solutions to help its customers adapt, grow and succeed in the fast-changing travel industry. Customer groups include travel providers (airlines, hotels, car rental companies, railway companies, ferry lines, cruise lines, insurance companies and tour operators), travel sellers (travel agencies) and travel buyers (corporations and travelers). Solutions are grouped in four solution categories - Distribution & Content, Sales & e-Commerce, Business Management and Services & Consulting.
Amadeus has central sites in Madrid (corporate headquarters & marketing), Nice (development) and Erding (Operations -- data processing center) and regional offices in Miami, Buenos Aires and Bangkok. At market level, Amadeus maintains customer operations in 75 countries covering more than 215 markets. The company has nearly 6,700 employees worldwide, representing 95 nationalities. Amadeus’ revenue for the year ended 31 December was €2,418.7m. More information about Amadeus is available at: www.amadeus.com.
About JetBlue Airways:
In the six years since its launch, JetBlue Airways has focused on creating a new airline category -- an airline that offers value, service and style. Based out of New York City, the low-cost carrier currently serves 48 destinations with up to 470 flights daily. Onboard JetBlue, customers enjoy roomy leather seats and 36 channels of free DIRECTV(r) programming, the most live TV available on any airline. On flights longer than two hours, a selection of first-run movies and bonus features from FOX InFlight(tm) is also available. JetBlue offers customers generous brand name snacks and beverages, including freshly brewed Dunkin' Donuts(r) coffee, and delicious wines selected by the airline's Low Fare Sommelier, Josh Wesson from Best Cellars(r). On overnight flights from the West, the airline now offers Shut-Eye Service(tm), with a comfort kit designed exclusively for JetBlue by Bliss Spa and other special amenities including a "good morning" hot towel service. With JetBlue, all seats are assigned, all travel is ticketless, all fares are one-way, and an overnight stay is never required. For information or reservations call 1-800-JETBLUE (1-800-538-2583) or visit www.jetblue.com/?source=pr.
