another nail in the coffin?

08 November, 2005

Jetstar looks at distribution channels
Comments: 4


Reports today indicate that cut price carrier Jetstar, is deep in talks with Australia Post as yet another way to bypass the traditional travel agents network for ticket sales. The airline is looking at the Post Office outlets providing access to tickets for those travellers who may not have access to the internet or possess a credit card.

Jetsar spokeman, Simon Westaway, was quoted as saying " Those who will benefit most … include consumers who don't have access to the internet or who are located in a postcode district not serviced by a registered travel agent".

With Post Offices now accepting payments for any number of bills including electricity, gas, etc, passengers would pay with cash, receive a receipt from a dedicated terminal and travel on a e-ticket.

While Westaway maintained that agents and Jetstar have a strong relationship, with 90% of Jetstar bookings done online, one can't help but think this is the thin edge of the wedge for distribution outlets, particularly in rural areas.

The Mole
www.travelmole.com.au