Disruption in distribution - We speak to the industry!

Airline sales and distribution practices are evolving at a mind numbing rate. Apps are being developed that utilise the power of artificial intelligence combined with constantly adaptive robots, chatbots; payment models are being developed that will reshape the way we think of money; and, in the ever vital realm of distribution, there is almost a state of war. Never in the history of the industry have so many moving pieces been under stress to adapt to a combination of new demands and technological advances.

The Blue Swan Daily spoke to a number of senior airline delegates at last week's CAPA ACTE Global Aviation and Corporate Travel Summit in London to learn their views on the subject.

• Finnair, CCO, Juha Järvinen highlights how the Nordic carrier is already investing in new distribution channels in China. He says the company "needs to be on every shelf" to best reach out to the consumer...

• CityJet, CEO, Pat Byrne sees mobile apps as a major disruptor as consumers seek more convenience. He says "access and recognition" are the two things the passenger wants the most from airlines...

• IAG, CEO, Willie Walsh sees role for direct and GDS distribution , but says the latter needs to be on the basis of "a realistic commercial arrangement"...

• bmi regional, CCO, Jochen Schnadt says consolidation in the European market will deliver its own kind of disruption to the industry...

• airBaltic, CEO, Martin Gauss says airlines need to stay on top of all tech developments as we have no idea today what will be the big thing in five years time..