Airline reservation systems are an interface between the consumer and the airline company that allows the consumer to book, rearrange and cancel air travel throughout the world. And while that sounds pretty simple, the interfaces are quite complex. With tens of thousands of flights occurring every day, prices constantly fluctuating and schedules ever changing, it's wise to learn a few of the terms you'll come across when using an airline reservation system for use in your personal life or business travel.

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E-ticket

An e-ticket is a paperless ticket that a passenger obtains when booking a flight through an airline reservation system. As the e-ticket is purchased, both the airline and the online reservation systems take note of that ticket, securing the reservation in their respective databases. Upon arriving at the airport, a customer is given a boarding pass after checking in through the self-service kiosks or the airline ticket counter.

I recommend: Visit Orbitz for information about e-tickets.

Public charter flight

A public charter flight is a flight purchased by an individual, company or organization through a private airline company that sells each seat individually for an advertised price. This differs from a private charter where a flight is purchased based on the total cost of the trip. Companies that offer public travel flights must register with the government and follow a set of standards similar to commercial airline travel.

I recommend: The Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings in Washington, D.C., describes different types of charter flight options in the United States.

Revenue accounting

Revenue accounting in airline reservation systems refers to the broader context of tracking the flow of money throughout the business. (All revenue that is generated when the customer books the ticket, to the deductions for the federal, state and local taxes and fees which must be set aside). Most airline reservation systems have a revenue accounting application within the system.

I recommend: Mazro offers information on revenue accounting.

Departure-control system

The departure-control system refers to a series of software applications found within airline reservation systems. The departure-control system is the glue between the passenger and the aircraft as it calculates such things as total baggage weight, tallying it for the entire aircraft. It also keeps track of delays and provides the crew with a flight manifest.

I recommend: InterGlobeTechnologies designs the application for departure-control systems found in many airline reservation systems.

Multiple-segment itineraries

Multiple-segment itineraries refers to travel in which a customer makes more than one stop, called a segment, before reaching a final destination.

I recommend: Home.Netcom has valuable information on multiple-segment trips.

Code share

Code share refers to an alliance between two airlines that allows the consumer to gain or use 'mileage points' or 'frequent flyer miles' on their airlines when they travel. For instance, if American Airlines has a code share with British Airways, you would be able to earn and redeem mileage awards by traveling on either airline.

I recommend: American Airlines is one of many commercial airlines that participate in code sharing. It has a comprehensive explanation for travelers.

Evaluate your current airline reservation systems and assess how well they are working. Make a list of the issues you have with your current reservations process and add a list of things you'd like your new reservations system to address. Refer to those lists as you consider the various types of airline reservation systems in order to make the selection that works best for you.

If possible, choose airline reservation systems that are compatible with the programs and procedures you already have in place. Regardless of how good a system may appear, if you have to change other processes that are functioning well, it's going to prove cost prohibitive in the long run.

1. Choose web-based airline reservation systems to save time and money.

2. Purchase airline reservation systems software.

3. Connect with customer-focused airline reservation systems.

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Consider web-based airline reservation systems

A web-based airline reservation systems provider saves you the time and expense of running the system on your server. Choose web-based providers that have a history in the airline reservations business. Look at how often the web-based system is down and take that into consideration when making your decision.

I recommend: Sqiva is a web-based airline reservation system that offers multi-currency fares, etickets and even allows you to see the income based on reservations of flights yet to depart. CarmenRez boasts a 48 hour turn-around time from the time you purchase it to the time it's up and running, and combines booking, scheduling and customer management.

Buy airline reservation systems software

Purchase software that's designed to make taking airline reservations simple and user-friendly. Find airline reservation systems that offer training to you and your employees. Create your airline reservation systems list and compare the training classes and ongoing training offered by each to help you make the best decision.

I recommend: RES is an airlines reservation system that focuses on self-service, reducing your costs and allowing the customers to make the reservation that works best for them. Videocom provides your airline with the latest in airline reservation systems and the customer support and training you need to make the change from your existing process.

Connect with airline reservation systems that are customer-based

Make sure your airline reservation systems directory is able to be accessed by customer-based reservation programs. Allowing that access allows customers to see a list of flights from which they can choose when making their reservations.

I recommend: Expedia and Orbitz allow customers to book airline reservations directly from the comfort of their home or office.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Look for airline reservation systems information regarding free trials. Free trials allow you to test drive the product before making any final decisions.

With the growth and expansion of many online options for airline reservation systems, particularly low-cost airfare retailers and the option to book online with many airlines directly, the need for advice on how to book your air travel is also growing. Finding advice and ratings for booking air travel can help you make the decision between a travel agent and direct online booking, or between a number of online booking services.

When reading advice and ratings about airline reservation systems, keep in mind that rates for airline tickets may vary seasonally, as well as depending on how far in advance you book your travel. Consider reviews that also address shifts in prices and reservation policies over time, rather than just comparing across airlines.

When searching for airline reservation systems advice and ratings, consider the following options:

1. Read advice on how to find airline reservation systems with the best rates;

2. Read reviews of airlines in an airline reservation systems directory;

3. Keep up with airline reservation systems provider advice from blogs and news services.

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Find airline reservation systems that help you travel safely and within your budget

A number of advice and ratings sites exist to help travelers find airline reservation systems that meet their budget and travel needs. Tips for getting the best rates on your airfare, as well as for conforming to airline regulations and safety precautions, can help make your airline travel more convenient and efficient no matter what booking service you use.

I recommend: Get airline reservation systems information on finding the best travel rates from SolveYourProblem.com. You can also get advice on traveling safely from the U.S. Army MWR travel tips page, designed for off-duty military personnel but applicable to many travelers.

Locate an airline reservation systems provider with positive reviews

A number of online services offer an airline reservation systems list with reviewer information, both from consolidated consumer ratings and from professional rating services and industry awards. These reviews and ratings can be helpful in choosing an individual airline based on the quality of their reservation system as rated by others.

I recommend: Skytrax offers an airline reservation systems directory that allows you to view consumer reviews by airline. JDPower.com also provides ratings broken down by a number of factors, including reservation system, for several different airlines, and presents an annual award to their highest rated business.

Use blogs and news sites to find airline reservation systems advice

Airline reservation systems advice and ratings are also widely available from a number of blogs devoted to travel advice and information, as well as from travel sections of new services. These sites often publish ratings and advice on an ongoing basis, making it easy for you to keep up with advice that reflects the latest trends in air travel.

I recommend: Airfarewatchdog.com provides up-to-date information on the lowest rates available across airline reservation systems, as well as other tips for making the most of air travel. You can also read a comparison of online direct booking and travel agent services from USA Today.

Those considering a career as an airline reservations or ticket agent will need proper airline reservation systems education and training. Even with many passengers making online reservations, all airlines still employ reservation agents and use airline reservation systems. Several airline reservation systems are currently available, and there are a few avenues one may take to get reservation system education and training.

Some colleges and universities offer courses in airline reservation systems for those seeking a degree in travel and tourism. Online courses in airline reservation systems are also available. You also might choose an internship at a major airline in order to get hands-on training on an airline reservation system. Consider these ways in which to receive your airline reservation systems education and training:

1. Enroll in airline reservation system courses at a local college or university.
2. Sign up for online courses that teach students about airline reservation systems.
3. Intern as an airline reservations agent for hands-on reservation system training.
   

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Attend college courses to learn about airline reservation systems

Some colleges, universities and technical or vocational schools offer programs in travel and tourism. Coursework in some of these programs includes classes that address specific airline reservation systems. Even if you choose not to pursue an associate or bachelor's degree, you might take a class or two that teaches about reservation systems.

I recommend: Cypress College offers classes that cover both APOLLO and SABRE, two widely-used airline reservation systems. Find two courses in computerized airline reservation systems through the travel industry management program at Miami Dade College.

Choose online courses as part of your airline reservation systems education and training

Many of those seeking education, training or continued education in any topic turn to online courses, mainly because of the flexibility they offer. Several online schools offer courses in airline reservation systems.

I recommend: Get an online introductory training course in both APOLLO and SABRE airline reservation system through AAA Travel Agent Training Center. Penn Foster has an online travel and tourism specialist program that includes an instruction set on airline computer reservation systems. The online travel agent training program at Gatlin Education Services allows students to choose courses in any of the five major airline reservation systems.

Take advantage of airline reservations internships

Few training tools can beat hands-on experience in any field, and this is certainly true when it comes to an airline reservation system. An internship in the airline industry can have you working alongside seasoned airline reservations agents who can train you in a one-on-one situation.

I recommend: Land an internship through Central Pennsylvania College and you can learn about airline reservations by interning at such companies as American Airlines and US Airways. Alaska Airlines offers summer internships in all areas of the airline industry. An internship at SkyWest Airlines provides students with hands-on training in the airline industry.