Travel agents can now book Shearings’ flight-inclusive packages online for the first time.
The operator is using new reservation platform Travelink, powered by Inspiretec, to make holidays by air available for agents to book in ‘real time’ through its website.
Previously some flight holidays were available but agents had to ring the call centre for up to date availability and prices and to book.
The move means agents can dynamically package flights with a bigger selection of existing coach holidays and river cruises for clients who do not want to travel to the destination or ship by coach.
There is currently a range of summer 2019 holidays by air available online for agents to book but new product is being added daily.
Shearings also plans to launch a new selection of holidays by air in its second edition Europe brochure, due out in the next few weeks.
This will feature some new destinations for Shearings which have not been easily accessible by coach or are too far to travel to by road on a seven-night holiday.
Jane Atkins, managing director, said: “This is the first time agents will be able to search and book a range of holidays with flights online, with real time pricing. Agents will be able to check for alternative airports to compare prices and suitability of flight times.
“This is all about saving agents time, offering greater choice to meet the needs of a wider customer base and will allow agents to be more dynamic.
“Coach tours are at the heart of our product offering, but developing our air options means we can add an extra layer of choice for existing and new customers.”