Glossary
Definition: A GDS (Global Distribution System) is a computerised reservation network used by travel agents to search, compare, and book airline tickets, hotels, and car rentals across hundreds of suppliers in real-time.
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Term at a glance
| Term | GDS (Global Distribution System) |
|---|---|
| One-liner | A GDS (Global Distribution System) is a computerised reservation network used by travel agents to search, compare, and book airline tickets, hotels, and car rentals across… |
| Where it matters | Premium-cabin booking decisions, fare-rules interpretation, airline-product comparison. |
| Related concepts | Consolidator Fare · IATA · PNR · Fare Class · NDC |
| Last verified | 2026-05-07 |
The three major GDS platforms are Sabre, Amadeus, and Travelport (Galileo/Apollo/Worldspan). These systems were originally developed by airlines in the 1960s and 1970s and have evolved into the backbone of the global travel distribution industry.
GDS platforms give travel agents access to real-time inventory and pricing from virtually every airline, hotel chain, and car rental company worldwide. They also provide access to fare classes and pricing that isn’t available on consumer-facing websites, including consolidator fare buckets.
BookMyBusinessClass uses Sabre GDS to access wholesale fare inventory across all major airlines. The GDS allows our agents to compare thousands of fare options in seconds, construct complex multi-segment itineraries, and book consolidator fares that aren’t visible on public booking sites. This professional toolset is a key reason why experienced agents can find prices that consumers cannot replicate independently.
In booking practice
At a Glance
| Term | Quick definition | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Service Carrier | A full-service carrier (FSC) is a traditional airline offering a comprehensive range of services including… | Read |
| Global Entry | Global Entry is a US Customs and Border Protection trusted-traveler program that provides expedited clearance… | Read |
| Frequent Flyer Miles | Frequent flyer miles (or points) are loyalty currency earned by flying with an airline or its partners, and… | Read |
| Herringbone Configuration | A herringbone configuration is a business class seat layout where seats are angled towards the cabin walls in… | Read |
| Flat Bed | A flat bed is a business or first class seat that converts into a fully horizontal sleeping surface,… | Read |
| Hub Airport | A hub airport is a central airport used by an airline as a transfer point to funnel passengers from many… | Read |
Related Terms
A full-service carrier (FSC) is a traditional airline offering a comprehensive range of services including multiple cabin classes, included meals and baggage, lounge access, and connecting itineraries through hub networks.
Global Entry is a US Customs and Border Protection trusted-traveler program that provides expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk international arrivals at US airports. Membership is $100 for 5 years and includes TSA PreCheck for domestic departures.
Frequent flyer miles (or points) are loyalty currency earned by flying with an airline or its partners, and through credit card spending, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, lounge access, and other travel benefits.
A herringbone configuration is a business class seat layout where seats are angled towards the cabin walls in a zigzag pattern, typically providing direct aisle access for every passenger in a 1-2-1 arrangement.
A flat bed is a business or first class seat that converts into a fully horizontal sleeping surface, synonymous with a lie-flat seat. The term emphasises the bed-like sleeping experience rather than the seating mechanism.
A hub airport is a central airport used by an airline as a transfer point to funnel passengers from many origins to many destinations, creating efficient connecting itineraries through a single point.
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