(KPL) Lao Airlines is to implement e-ticketing and has signed up to Amadeus’ e-Retail system, an e-commerce global booking solution, according to Asiatravel.com

Scheduled to take place in stages, the first phase of the e-ticketing implementation will enable Lao Airlines to issue e-tickets to selected travel agents in Thailand. Subsequently, the access will be widened to include all agents in Laos, and all markets in Asia Pacific including their major markets in other regions. The move sees Lao Airlines conforming to the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) January 2008 deadline for 100% paperless ticketing for airlines, which is anticipated to save the industry up to US$3 billion per annum when in full effect.
A separate agreement has also been signed by Lao Airlines to adopt the Amadeus e-Travel Airline Suite solution, which will allow travellers to make their reservations online from the convenience of home or an internet cafe. Available in 23 languages, the solution currently powers more than 120 websites and over 70 airlines in at least 75 markets around the world.

Mr. Saleum Tayarath, Deputy Commercial Director, Lao Airlines, “With the promise of substantial savings, the move to paperless ticketing became a clear route for Lao Airlines. Naturally, the challenge was to locate a dependable partner who could ensure a smooth and seamless transition from paper tickets to electronic ones.”
“At the same time, there was also a need for an online platform to help broaden the access of our tickets to travellers, so as to better align ourselves with the big industry players. Being the market leader for both the e-ticketing and e-commerce sectors, Amadeus became our obvious choice as technology partner,” Mr. Tayarath added. Lao Airlines currently flies to major Asian cities including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, Kunming, Luang Prabang, Pakse, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Vientiane.

Source: kpl

THE final round of the I-mobile Star Challenge 2007 has many surprises in store with performances from the 12 contestants on May 20 at the Lao International Trade and Exhibition Convention Centre (Lao-ITECC).

The Samart I-mobile phone company in Vientiane launched the challenge in the last few months, calling for talented young people to participate in a contest to find dynamic young presenters. From the 12 finalists, two will be selected to represent the company in commercial pitches on Thai television...more

“The final will showcase all of the props, skills and experience brought by the Thai artists involved in organising the event, so I can say with certainty that it will be a great event,” the Managing Director of the company, Ms Suphitcha Ramasoot, said.

The company selected 12 finalists at the semi-final, held at the National Culture Hall last month, to promote Lao culture, traditions and tourism in Luang Prabang and Vientiane provinces.

“The finalists participated in many activities with the Thai artists. Recently we recorded a video of the 12 contestants in various important places in Vientiane. We’ll also screen many of the activities at the final,” Ms Suphicha said.

Tickets are for sale at the event and also at I-mobile outlets for 20,000 kip. This is a change from the semi-final where tickets were not on sale to the general public.

“Our staff agreed to sell tickets because a lot of people called wanting to buy tickets to the semi-final. Because this Sunday is the last chance for the public to see the contest we decided to sell tickets,” the director said.

The contest will feature local hard rock band The Cells, who are also booming in popularity in Thailand. They will share the stage with Thai singer Dom Pakonrum.
The contest starts at 7pm on May 20, at Lao-ITECC.

By SOUKNILUNDON SOUTHIVONGNORATH
vientianetimes