Sabre and VIM Avia ink distribution agreement

Russian carrier VIM Avia is to distribute to the trade via Sabre.

The airline has agreed a full-content agreement with Sabre Travel Network to enable 350,000 agents access to its fares.

VIM joins more than 400 airlines that have chosen the GDS to sell to travel agencies. Sabre recently announced agreements with easyJet and Saudi Arabian Airlines.

Deputy commercial director Alexey Mamin said: “VIM recognises the value of Sabre and its innovative leadership in helping airlines market and sell products to millions of travellers worldwide.

“Distributing our fares through Sabre is, therefore, an important part of our ongoing growth strategy.

“Working with Sabre is important for our business in the Russian market, and gives us a global reach that will help drive our business to the next level.”

Sabre’s commercial director in Russia Anastasia Lavrenyuk said: “VIM joins the many global airlines that understand the GDS as an important source of revenue and growth.

“Sabre invests hundreds of millions of pounds every year in technology to help airlines grow their businesses and provide agencies with an efficient and transparent platform to sell air travel to their customers.

“This agreement gives our agency customers greater choice and relevant content throughout the regions.”