AA, Sabre Talk About Talking

With the Sept. 1 deadline for American Airlines to start levying $3.50 per segment fees on bookings through the Sabre Travel Network global distribution system rapidly approaching, travel management companies reported receiving sweetened offers from both parties to maintain relationships. Some TMC sources caught in the crossfire said the latest developments suggest American and Sabre would soon resume negotiations on a long-term distribution deal, a perception reinforced today by both parties.