Skyscanner, owned by China’s largest travel company Ctrip, is a travel fare aggregator and metasearch engine.
With over 30 language options, the website enables visitors to efficiently plan and book their travel arrangements, such as flights, hotels, and car rentals, at competitive prices. Additionally, Skyscanner features a news section with updates on flights and the travel industry, along with helpful tips for customers Skyscanner, recognized as a prominent online booking engine, has garnered multiple accolades for its exceptional performance. In 2010, it was honored with the prestigious Travolution award for being the Best Flight Comparison Site
Historical Background of Skyscanner
Skyscanner emerged in 2001 through the efforts of three IT professionals, namely Bonamy Grimes, Barry Smith, and Gareth Williams. Their frustration with the lack of affordable flights to ski resorts led them to develop Skyscanner as a solution to this problem.
In 2002, Skyscanner was launched to the public, and the first office was established in Edinburgh, Scotland in 2004. Subsequently, the company expanded its presence by opening offices in Singapore, Beijing, and Miami. Skyscanner also made several acquisitions, including travel sites like Zoombu and Toubibi, as well as mobile app developer Distinction. By 2016, Skyscanner reached a valuation of $1.6 billion and employed 600 individuals.
Towards the end of 2016, Ctrip acquired Skyscanner for a notable sum of $1.75 billion.
Skyscanner’s Offerings
By becoming a part of Skyscanner’s extensive network, consisting of over 1200 reputable airlines and travel businesses, you gain access to their cutting-edge platform. This allows you to benefit from a range of services that include
Facilitating Direct Reservations
Skyscanner’s direct booking feature enables travelers to swiftly research and book their travel arrangements directly on the platform. This service presents an opportunity for businesses to leverage Skyscanner’s extensive user traffic and user-friendly booking processes. Notably, with direct bookings, you can collect and retain customer information as if the booking were made on your own website.
The direct booking functionality is compatible with various integration types, including New Distribution Capability (NDC)-ready providers. It also provides seamless mobile support, catering to customers who prefer using mobile devices. Additionally, the Skyscanner service allows you to enhance the booking experience by offering upsell options such as baggage fare upgrades, seat selection, insurance, and meals.
An example of an airline utilizing Skyscanner for direct bookings is British Airways
Seamless Integration with Hotels
Introduced in 2014, this service provides an opportunity for your hotel business to expand its reach to a vast user base on the Skyscanner website and mobile app. By partnering with Skyscanner, you gain access to experienced sales managers who possess valuable expertise and can assist you in achieving your business goals and objectives.
Efficient Integration with Flights
Skyscanner Flight Integrations offer a powerful platform to present and promote your ancillary products to a wide market. By enabling customers to compare flight prices directly on the Skyscanner website, you can significantly enhance your visibility, drive conversions, and capitalize on new upsell prospects. Skyscanner’s streamlined referral mechanism ensures that customers are seamlessly directed to the brands they collaborate with, optimizing the user experience.
Advantages of Utilizing Skyscanner
There are several benefits to using Skyscanner for your travel needs:
- Comprehensive Comparison: Skyscanner allows you to compare prices across various airlines, hotels, and car rental services, helping you find the best deals available.
- Convenience and Efficiency: With Skyscanner’s user-friendly platform, you can easily plan and book your entire trip in one place, saving you time and effort.
- Cost Savings: By leveraging Skyscanner’s powerful search engine, you have access to competitive prices and exclusive discounts, ensuring you get the most value for your money.
- Reliable and Trustworthy: Skyscanner collaborates with reputable airlines, hotels, and travel providers, ensuring a secure and reliable booking experience.
- Flexibility: Skyscanner offers flexible search options, allowing you to customize your travel preferences and filters according to your specific needs.
- Multi-language Support: With Skyscanner available in over 30 languages, you can comfortably navigate and make bookings in your preferred language.
- Travel Tips and Insights: Skyscanner provides a wealth of travel-related information, including news, guides, and tips, helping you make informed decisions and enhancing your overall travel experience.
Overall, Skyscanner simplifies the travel planning process, providing you with a comprehensive and convenient platform to find and book your desired travel arrangements at competitive prices.
