Ticket distribution in aviation

Innovation is closely linked to air transport, from the development of aircraft technologies to the creation of computer reservation systems. T he latter led to the development of global distribution systems (GDSs) that consolidated airline supply and presented it clearly for travel agents to sell air tickets to passengers. Although there are many challenges, the development and regulation of ticketing distribution are relevant to this day. This issue of Network Industries Quarterly aims to untangle the complexity of ticket distribution in aviation by examining it from different angles. In their contribution titled “Regulating Ticket Distribution in Aviation: What is at stake?”, Juan Montero and Matthias Finger provide context for the ticket distribution system by discussing the key measures required for its regulation. Montserrat Barriga’s contribution addresses how digitalisation has changed the aviation industry. It offers prospects to enhance connectivity, convenience and transparency for passengers, but it also reminds the industry and policymakers to be aware of possible challenges for regional airlines. The complexity of ticket distribution is also discussed by Attila Fodor in his piece “Behind the Sky: Air Ticket Distribution – a complex world”. The author examines key challenges in air ticket distribution and proposes investigating solutions from other industries while considering all stakeholders involved. The fourth contribution from María Jesús Guerrero Lebrón examines whether regulation of GDSs is still needed. The European Union must find a balance between promoting innovation and implementing effective regulations that ensure all parties adhere to the same standards. In their contribution, Sabine Buchner and Roman van Alten discuss airline ticket distribution as a regulatory opportunity to enhance innovation and collaboration within the aviation industry. T he final contribution is from Matthew Krasa, who emphasizes the importance of direct ticket distribution for airlines, enabling them to be more transparent with consumers and invest in innovation.