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Despite consistently referring to them as “pirates”, Ryanair has recently formed a partnership with an online travel agent (OTA) for the first time.
The airline based in Dublin has announced a partnership with loveholidays to include their flights in vacation packages.
Ryanair has expressed strong dissatisfaction with OTAs for selling its flights without authorization.
Last week, it was brought to attention that companies such as Kiwi.com, Opodo, eDreams, and lastminute.com were overcharging their customers.
There is a problem with the contact information of passengers not being transferred, causing challenges in giving travel updates and issuing refunds.
Ryanair insisted its partnership with loveholidays is “transparent” as travellers will not pay more than if they book direct, and the airline will receive accurate contact details.
During a media briefing in London, Dara Brady, the director of marketing, communications, and digital for Ryanair, stated that it was a significant day for the company.
He stated that the intention is not to overcharge customers. The goal is also not to withhold important information from customers. In the event that something does go wrong, there is a process in place to ensure that customers can receive refunds. It has been consistently stated that as long as online travel agencies (OTAs) follow the rules, there is willingness to collaborate with them.
He continued, “In terms of Ryanair, I believe this is a significant step in the right direction.”
“We will persistently advocate against OTAs that do not abide by the regulations. They are like pirates, and we do not wish to engage with them.”
“We are pleased to collaborate with trustworthy partners, such as loveholidays, who prioritize the customer and do not add mark-ups. They also provide us with accurate customer information, making it a positive working relationship.”
Loveholidays is the top OTA in the UK and ranks third in terms of offering package holidays.
“The addition of this new partnership showcases our dedication to promoting consumer options, with the ultimate goal of making travel more budget-friendly and attainable, while also providing opportunities for individuals to explore the world.”
In December, OTAs ceased selling Ryanair flights, resulting in a small drop in the percentage of occupied seats on their airplanes.
According to Mr. Brady, the loveholiday partnership is not a reaction to any specific event, as the airline is content with OTAs not promoting its flights.
Source: independent.co.uk
