Business Wars Encore: Southwest vs American Airlines | Aviation Cyber Wars | 3
Jun 30, 2021
In the midst of a travel industry revolution, American Airlines races to implement SABRE, a groundbreaking electronic reservation system, before competitors catch up. Tensions flare as airline titans clash at a charity event, highlighting intense rivalries. The looming deregulation spells uncertainty, with Southwest Airlines emerging as a fierce contender advocating for industry changes. As new technologies and competition reshape the landscape, the future of air travel is uncertain yet thrilling.
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Crandall's Rio Trip
- American Airlines CFO Bob Crandall went to Rio to convince travel agents to adopt a joint reservation system.
- This system, called "Jickers", aimed to give airlines control over flight bookings and fees.
Technology vs. Stagflation
- Crandall believed technology like Jickers would revolutionize the airline industry and combat stagflation.
- However, United Airlines' CEO, Dick Ferris, seemed unenthusiastic, hinting at a separate plan.
Sabre vs. Apollo
- Crandall learned United was developing its own system, Apollo, and decided to beat them with Sabre.
- Despite financial struggles, he secured funding for Sabre's development, prioritizing technological advancement.