Jetstar has expanded its distribution network in China following the signing of a new agreement with local GDS, TravelSky.

An estimated 7,000 Chinese travel agents from 300 cities will now have direct access to Jetstar’s fares and ancillary services. The tie-up will offer Jetstar’s products through TravelSky’s ETerm LCC platform, specifically designed for the low-cost carrier market.

Jetstar will launch its Hong Kong subsidiary in 2013

Jetstar said the agreement was designed to boost its presence in China ahead of the launch of Jetstar Hong Kong in 2013.

“Providing travel agents in China with easy access our low fares is key to supporting our future growth and the ongoing acceptance of our brand,” said the airline’s Executive Manager of Commercial, David Koczkar. “Innovative solutions, specifically designed to our needs, help keep our costs low and our low fares accessible.”

Jetstar also recently included the Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP), one of the most widely used payment systems in China, as one of the methods for ticketing agents.

“Creating convenient ways for agents to do business with us is key to driving accessibility, particularly in markets like China where consumers rely heavily on travel agents as well as our Chinese website,” Koczkar added.

TravelSky’s Executive Officer, Lei Yang commented; “Both Jetstar and TravelSky will benefit from this cooperation. With Jetstar’s competitive airfares and extensive network, it will enhance our market in the Asia Pacific region,” he said.

The deal will apply to all Jetstar-branded carriers including Jetstar Airways, Jetstar Asia, Jetstar Japan, Jetstar Pacific and the future Jetstar Hong Kong.  

Jetstar currently flies to eight Chinese destinations; Beijing, Hangzhou, Ningbo, Shantou, Haikou, Guangzhou, Nanning and Hong Kong. It also offers services to Taipei.

<Travel Daily Asia>

2 May 2012, Wednesday 8:48 AM