FlyNamibia says it will be partnering with Airlink to promote its flights and services to travel agents worldwide through the Global Distribution System (GDS).
The GDS platform allows Airlink to display and sell its inventory in multiple markets globally and from 24 July 2023, FlyNamibia will also gain global access through a franchise arrangement.
“Joining the GDS is a major milestone for our growing airline and it will be a boost for Namibia because it makes our flights, network and schedule visible to customers in parts of the world that, until now, we have been unable to access,” FlyNamibia’s CEO Andre Compion said.
Although FlyNamibia’s inventory will be displayed on the GDS starting from 24 July, bookings for flights scheduled up to and including 28 August will still be managed through their current reservation system.
Meanwhile, reservations for FlyNamibia flights from 29 August onwards will be processed on the GDS with customers able to follow instructions on the website which will be linked to the new booking portal.
FlyNamibia will maintain parallel systems for six weeks to ensure a smooth transition.
In conjunction with this development, FlyNamibia said it will introduce its new co-branded website in collaboration with Airlink, directly linked to the Amadeus Altea reservation portal. This user-friendly platform aims to simplify the booking process for customers.
Airlink CEO and Managing Director, Rodger Foster said by building connectivity and extending FlyNamibia’s reach will unlock new markets and efficiencies for Namibia’s business, trade, travel and tourism sectors.
“This is one of the logical progressions we envisaged when Airlink invested in FlyNamibia last September. It will help us strengthen air services within Namibia and support the Namibia Airports Company in positioning Windhoek’s Hosea Kutako International Airport as an alternative SADC region gateway hub,” he said.
FlyNamibia’s access to the GDS will significantly enhance its ability to cater to the rising demand for travel to and from Namibia due to the country’s economic expansion.
The airline will continue to operate its own flights and retain its unique brand and identity, aligning with Namibia’s Harambee Prosperity Plan II and the National Transport Policy’s vision for efficient and world-class air transport services.
