SITA
Information Networking Computing and Unisys Corporation
have announced that they have signed a Heads of Agreement setting out the basis for a strategic partnership in passenger management systems. 
The agreement will provide airlines with the world’s first customer-centric passenger management solution based on an open, web-based, easy-to-use system. The solution will allow carriers to more closely align their business practices with the individual needs of their customers, while helping to ensure that cost efficiencies are achieved, economies of scale are realized and service levels are enhanced. SITA INC—the leading provider of global, network-enabled business solutions to the air transport and related industries—will team with Unisys to manage key elements of the transition and ongoing operations to deliver the new solution, which will be based on the Unisys AirCore? platform.

This SITA INC/Unisys relationship will contribute to the continuation of a healthy, competitive environment for passenger systems in terms of service, functionality, and price.  The global industry experience and expertise of SITA INC coupled with Unisys end-to-end capabilities to develop, deliver and manage competitive transportation solutions worldwide creates, for the air transport community, a powerful partnership that surpasses current passenger management solutions alternatives.  For SITA INC’s customers, the innovative partnership also facilitates a smooth transition to an open, customer-centric solution that can deliver immediate value for them and their passengers. 

Bryan Wilson, Senior Vice President, Applications Services, SITA INC, commented: “Customer loyalty is at the heart of any airline’s competitive advantage. Achieving excellence in customer service while at the same time improving business processes is not easy. SITA INC is pleased to join with Unisys to offer a passenger management solution that places customer information at the center of an airline’s operational and business decision-making processes. We are looking forward to continuing our long-term relationship with our partner Unisys, and to help airlines move from mere transactions of data to valuable interactions with their passengers.”

“This strategic partnership was created to help address the ongoing challenges of the air transport industry,” said Olivier Houri, President, Unisys Global Transportation.  “Unisys AirCore together with SITA INC’s experience and expertise will leapfrog existing solutions by providing the next generation of capabilities, flexibility and technology. Our web-based passenger management solution includes inventory management, reservation and departure control systems which are fully integrated with real CRM capabilities. In addition, Unisys expertise in transitioning and managing end-to-end transportation processes gives SITA INC access to the best staff, the latest technology and the most efficient operations without the investment burdens these assets usually require.”

All details of the Heads of Agreement remain confidential.  The definitive contract will be negotiated in the coming months. 

Related stories on ITN:

(17/01/2003) SITA CUTE certification for Total Airport Solution

(11/11/2002) SITA Wins BestTransport
Application Award for C-Travel

(10/05/2002) SITA and IATA Unveil s-Travel Initiative

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