STOCKHOLM, Sweden, March 20, 2002 (PRIMEZONE) -- On May 28, SAS will introduce its new Website. This new facility will significantly improve travel management efficiency by allowing SAS customers to book, purchase - and check-in - via the Web. The guiding principles underlying the development of the new site have been simplicity and speed, two factors that are reflected in the new navigation structure and faster technology platform.
The launch of the new Website coincides with SAS Airline's introduction of Scandinavian Direct - a revolutionary new concept that comprehensively changes the entire travel chain. Scandinavian Direct means that a single-class system will be introduced, that, business travel prices will be reduced by up to 30 percent, onboard service will be modernized and it will also be easier to book, purchase and check-in.
Web Check-in With Seat-Selection
A completely new feature of the Website is the opportunity for passengers to check-in for most SAS flights within Scandinavia and to destinations outside the Scandinavian area.
"The customer can now book, purchase and check-in in one place. Customers can also have their baggage taken care of at the airport," said Charlotte Rosengren-Edgren, Product Manager IT, SAS Airline.
The Web Check-in service can be used at the earliest 22 hours before departure and customers can also select their seat placement at the same time. Any passenger traveling on one of SAS's electronic ticket types is eligible to use the Web Check-in service. All bookings, regardless of whether they are made directly via SAS or through a travel agent, are covered by this service. Customers with flexible ticket conditions can also select an earlier or later departure in relation to the original booking.
Simplified Website to Increase SAS Lead Over Competitors
The SAS Website is already the most-visited travel sites in Scandinavia. During 2001, flights to a value of more than SEK 1 billion were booked and sold via the site. During the same year, the SAS site registered 15 million hits and in February this year an all-time high was noted with more than 1.6 million visitors during just one month. SAS is expecting the number of Web visits and sales to continue to multiply during 2002 and 2003.
Although high, the goal established is fully realistic. The new Website is designed to encourage and accommodate both bookings and sales: "The new site is simpler and faster. The first feature seen by the visitor is a booking window. Greater accessibility is a basic prerequisite for increasing the number of bookings and purchases made via the Web," said Filip Francke, Director Electronic Channels, SAS Airline.
The new Website is constructed on a technology platform that is faster than its predecessor, which will enable services to be more personalized. SAS will be able to hold a dialog with the individual customer and make offers tailored to meet a specific customer's requirements.
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