Monarch moves to New Skies platform

Monarch has upgraded its IT platform, becoming one of the first airlines to implement the latest version of Navitaire’s widely-used New Skies platform.

Monarch has upgraded its IT platform, becoming one of the first airlines to implement the latest version of Navitaire’s widely-used New Skies platform.

Liz Savage, Monarch Flights and Holidays managing director, said implementing version 2.2 of the platform would build a stronger foundation for the business. Monarch is using the New Skies web, call-centre and departure-control modules.

New Skies is built using .NET technology. The initial benefits are behind the scenes, but Savage said Monarch is working on new features for the website which should be introduced over coming weeks.

Speaking at the Barclays Commercial Travel Forum in London this week, Savage said the airline’s load factors were up this year on last, but margins were under pressure.

Monarch’s direct-sell business is likely to turnover £360m this year, she said, with 85% of flights booked direct. However, no breakdown of web and call-centre business was available.

The economic climate has led to “a much stronger response to our promotions,” Savage said. “There is an initial rush when we launch promotions in the press, and we are finding it easier to close out a promotion with email marketing.”