Booking online with bmi, the UK`s second largest full service scheduled airline, is now even easier thanks to the introduction of innovative XML technology to its new internet booking engine (IBE).

bmi is one of the first airlines to introduce the technology to its website, enabling it to deliver `real time` availability for partner offers, such as car parking, car hire and hotel accommodation. Once a booking is made, a live link from bmi`s selected partner sites is displayed on the booking confirmation page and email. This enables the customer to see at a glance exact availability and real price offers based on their confirmed travel plans.Ê When a partner link is selected, the intelligent system automatically inserts names and itinerary, requiring the customer to simply check through the details and complete their payment details.

The introduction of these services is part of an extensive and exciting overhaul to the technology behind flybmi.com, designed to deliver better navigation and a more enhanced, user-friendly IBE.Ê New facilities and products available will include better options to search for flights, advance seating, SMS text messaging facility for flight information or to review a booking, helpful navigation icons and better options for frequent flyer members with Lufthansa and SAS.

Speaking about the new developments, Adrian Parkes, bmi commercial director, said:Ê “The new partner services being offered at flybmi.com are a breakthrough, and I`m delighted that we`re at the forefront of such cutting-edge technology. The new features will be invaluable to our customers who will now be able to benefit from the convenience of seeing real availability and offers from our partners based on a booked itinerary.Ê

“bmi`s online customers will continue to see improvements at flybmi.com. The new look booking engine will be simpler to use and will pave the way for further, exciting online facilities.”

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