Leading travel software and technology company Sabre Corporation terminated its distribution agreement with Russian flag carrier Aeroflot. The decision was made on March 3, 2022, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Sabre, the largest global distribution systems provider for air bookings in North America, provides retailing, distribution, and fulfillment services for a wide range of travel companies, including airlines, hotels, and travel agencies. The company has now taken “immediate steps” to remove Aeroflot’s content from its global distribution system GDS, a marketplace used by travel agencies and corporations to make flight reservations.
By removing Aeroflot, the largest carrier in Russia, travel agencies and corporations across the globe will no longer be able to make Aeroflot flight reservations or purchases.
“We are taking a stand against this military conflict. We are complying and will continue to comply, with sanctions imposed against Russia. In addition, today we announced that Sabre has terminated its distribution agreement with Aeroflot, removing its content from our GDS,” Sabre chief executive officer (CEO) Sean Menke said in a statement.
The CEO continued: “Sabre has been monitoring the evolving situation in Ukraine with increasing concern. From the beginning, our primary focus has been the safety of our team members in the impacted region, as well as doing our part to support the much-needed relief efforts.”
Following the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, the company also stated that additional measures could be implemented in the future if needed.