Galileo chosen by Cook to replace Amadeus

Travelport has been chosen by Thomas Cook to be its new GDS partner in a “multi-year” deal signed with the UK tour operating giant.

The US airline and hotels reservations firm, which in January announced its intention to float on the London stock market next month, replaces Amadeus following a competitive tendering process.

Work will now start migrating all of Thomas Cook’s business, including tour operator Gold Medal and its online consumer retailer Netflights, on to the Galileo system over the next few months.

Announcing the deal today, the two organisations also said Cook will bring in Travelport’s ePricing low fares solution and they are discussing further opportunities to extend their relationship outside of the UK.

Gordon Wilson, president and chief executive of Travelport, said: “This is a huge win for Travelport and we are thrilled that Thomas Cook has selected to migrate all of its UK business to the Galileo platform.

“Thomas Cook told us that the decision was a reflection of the strength of our GDS offering, our commitment to product innovation and development as well as our ability to provide superior support.”

Manny Fontenla-Novoa, chief executive of the Thomas Cook Group, said: “The Travelport team invested considerable time understanding our business objectives and has been very responsive in meeting our needs.

“We feel confident that the GDS functionality, technology and support they can offer through this partnership will assist us in achieving our UK growth strategy.”