Skift Take
The easing of GDS restrictions in China is a huge development for the GDSs themselves and international airlines. The overture undoubtedly will be tightly controlled as China continues to open up more broadly to the rest of the world.
China is easing its airline distribution regulations, allowing international global distribution systems (GDS) to sell flights in the country for the first time.
The new rules, published by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), will enable non-Chinese airlines to sell their fares via the GDS within China. China-registered airlines however, will still be restricted. The opening of the Chinese market will see travel technology company Amadeus enter the country for the first time.
Speaking about the move, David Brett, President of Amadeus Asia Pacific said; “The new regulations are an important step in bringing positive change to the current travel landscape in China. The regulations will enable a new technology infrastructure that will allow for a more dynamic travel booking market with more travel products on offer that will greatly benefit the Chinese travel industry and Chinese travellers.”
The Daily Newsletter
Our daily coverage of the global travel industry. Written by editors and analysts from across Skift’s brands.
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