Gol, Amadeus sign distribution agreement

Brazilian low fare airline Gol has signed an agreement allowing travel industry platform supplier Amadeus to distribute the airline's flight and fare information around the globe, the companies said in a statement. The contract will start in August and Gol's flights will be available for booking and sales through the Amadeus system. "We recognized the need to increase our distribution channels and reach a greater number of passengers, particularly in the United States and Europe," Wilson Maciel, Gol's planning and IT VP, said. The deal will make Gol's flight information available to more than 67,000 travel agencies in 217 markets around the world. In 2004, 80% of Gol's ticket sales were generated through its website and the company promotes online purchasing of airline tickets. Gol is a low fare airline, with over 350 daily flights to 42 major business and travel destinations in Brazil and Argentina. Amadeus has operated in Brazil since 1994 and provides technology for travel and tourism markets.