CWT launches upgrade of airfare optimisation tool

CWT is rolling out an upgraded version of its airfare optimisation services, which is using AI to predict changes in air ticket prices.

The travel management company said that the latest version of the platform extends the window during which prices can be optimised to help clients secure lower prices.

The service, which is offered through a partnership with travel tech firm Wenrix, is integrated into all of CWT’s booking channels. When it identifies an opportunity to make savings on flights it automatically rebooks the existing reservation, taking into account any cancellation or change fees from the airline and ensuring compliance with fare rules.

Erica Antony, CWT’s chief product officer, said: “Our price optimisation service is one of the simplest ways for our customers to save on their air spend. It’s a turnkey solution that has minimal set-up and maintenance requirements and doesn’t cause any disruption to travellers.”

The TMC said it has been piloting the upgrade with selected customers in the US and Europe, with some of these clients seeing a doubling in their level of savings on flights compared with using the previous version of the tool.

The enhanced platform is initially being made available to clients in 12 countries with plans to roll out to more markets in the next few months.

CWT is set to be taken over by rival TMC American Express Global Business Travel later this year, subject to the acquisition being approved by competition authorities around the world.