A new deal between Sabre and CellPoint Digital will expand the range of payments methods for retailers using the GDS’s SabreSonic and Radixx passenger platforms.

The tie-up with the payments orchestration firm is also expected to simplify payments processes and reduce costs while improving the customer experience.

Airlines can choose from an extensive range of payment options, including international card networks commonly used for global transactions, digital wallets and other non-card-based methods.

Sabre said these offer consumers more flexibility at checkout, alternative ways to pay that might include deferred payment or mobile-based solutions, and direct bank-to-bank transfers enabled by real-time or open banking systems.

Nicolas Ortiz Luengo, senior director, travel payments product at Sabre, said: “We are excited to work with CellPoint Digital to offer airlines flexibility and choice in payment solutions.

“This agreement highlights our commitment to helping airlines improve their payments strategies by enhancing the user experience and reducing costs.

“Seamlessly integrating CellPoint Digital helps airlines optimize their payment strategies, ensuring secure transactions and support for increasingly used alternative forms of payment.

“With a wide variety of payment options available, the collaboration drives greater efficiency and satisfaction in the airline industry.”

Kristian Gjerding, chief executive at CellPoint Digital, added: “This agreement gives airlines access to a wide range of pre-integrated methods through a single connection”, said.

“It simplifies the expansion of their payment mix, supports local market needs, and reduces friction at checkout — all of which contribute to higher conversion rates.

“As the role of payments grows in both customer experience and cost management, this integration offers greater flexibility and control.”