ABCS: APG BSP Coordination Services
ABCS allows airlines a variable cost, “Pay as you Earn” way to access up to 64,000 IATA accredited travel agents in 110 BSPs worldwide, in markets where the airline does not have a local presence, and is need of local administrative support to the trade. The APG Network, through our worldwide offices, has introduced more than 250 airlines to BSP membership in both “Online” and “Offline” markets.
Target Audience
ABCS is widely used by carriers of all sizes and is available for all scheduled airlines, both IATA and non-IATA:
- Big airlines use ABCS in thin or seasonal “online” markets and in “offline” markets
- Small, start up or regional airlines use ABCS in both online and offline markets to establish their brand rapidly.
Benefits
- Full BSP membership in a program backed by IATA
- Features BSP membership on a “Pay as you Earn” variable cost basis without major capital expenditure
- Affords automated neutral E-ticket issuance via GDS
- Remittance on BSP payment cycle directly to the airline
- ABCS carriers can participate in the IATA Currency Clearance System (ICCS) – allows payment in choice of currency and country
- ABCS airlines are eligible to join the IATA Card Clear, Card AXS systems giving worldwide access to Visa and MasterCard clearance
- No long term contracts – Only 90 day notice
Services
- ABCS helps airlines to generate marginal sales revenues:
- APG Network Members function as the Local Carrier Representative to BSPs
- Handles application formalities for the airline with the BSP offices
- Executes agreements between the airline & the BSP
- Processes Travel Agent Debit/Credit Memos (ADMs/ACMs)
- Sets up local banking relationships, or alternatively, open carrier escrow accounts
- Assists in local credit card acceptance or alternatively offers outsourced acceptance/clearance facilities at low cost
- Covers any agency defaults incurred by the airline
- Offers free fare filing for up to 5 routes to promote the launch of a new BSP