Travelport has announced the appointment of Philip Saunders, a highly experienced airline executive, as vice president, air commerce, EMEA, with immediate effect.

In the role he will be responsible for leading the Europe, Middle East and Africa air commerce strategy, partnering closely with Rabih Saab, who leads Travelport’s agency commerce operations in the region. 

In this role, Saunders will pay particular attention to Travelport’s airline partnerships ensuring airline customers have access to Travelport’s leading travel commerce platform and industry-leading technology to service their needs.

Saunders joins from Kuwait Airways where he held the role of chief commercial officer and was responsible for significantly increasing both passenger numbers and revenues.

He brings more than 25 years’ experience to the role, the majority of which has been focused on the airline industry.

Before working for Kuwait Airways, he held senior commercial and customer-facing positions at Air Malta, Caribbean Airlines, Star Alliance, SN Brussels Airlines and British Airways. 

Through his roles in the aviation sector, he has also built up a deep understanding what airlines are looking for from technology partners and the value they need to bring. 

He commented: “I’m thrilled to have been given this fantastic opportunity to join the Travelport team.

“Travelport has demonstrated real leadership and innovation in the industry and is transforming the way air content is being distributed to online and offline travel agencies. 

“It is also clearly leading the way in its digital and mobile offering for airlines. 

“Having worked in the airline industry for many years, I know and understand how this type of newer, digital technology and thinking can benefit our customers.”