AI starts work on moving towards a common code

New Delhi: Air India's moves towards evolving a common passenger code and integrating its IT operations have gathered momentum with leading US firm Sabre Airline Solutions starting work on it.
In a bid to be more cost efficient, the national carrier recently awarded the contract to Sabre for a common passenger code and a fully integrated flight control system, which would help the national carrier achieve operational efficiencies in key functions, airline officials said.
A common code or a single flight code is an essential requirement for Air India joining the global airlines' grouping Star Alliance.
At present, Air India, Indian Airlines and Alliance Air have AI, IC and AA as codes and ticket bookings are made through the Passenger Service System using them. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issues airline operator's permits on the basis of these codes.
A common code would also be required if the carrier plans to rename its parent company, National Aviation Company of India (NACIL) into Air India, as was suggested by the Civil Aviation Ministry over a year ago.
The Ministry had asked NACIL in 2008-09 to rename itself as Air India. But the proposal could not be implemented as there is still no common code.
The Sabre would carry out a range of activities which also includes creation of a dedicated hub control centre that would give Air India an automatic decision-making aid to recover from any irregularity like a flight diversion or delay, the officials said.
30/03/10 Press Trust of India/Business Standard

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Categories: Air India - International Mar 2010, Air India Domestic Mar 2010, NACIL Mar 2010