Hahnair revamps global airline payment systems
Hahnair, a leader in airline distribution, is transforming payment systems globally, according to the company’s Head of Payments, Ben Sibbald. The company operates in 190 markets and connects over 350 airlines with more than 100,000 travel agencies.
Sibbald didn’t plan to drastically change airline payments, but his diverse background in finance has helped him tackle the industry’s complex challenges.
The company’s payment strategy must account for significant variations across markets, as Sibbald explains that practically every country uses credit cards differently and for different reasons.
Hahnair currently accepts credit card payments in 112 markets, with payment methods available for all 190 markets. The gap exists due to restrictions on card types in certain countries and varying levels of banking infrastructure.
The company begins with BSP Cash, a payment method used in the Billing and Settlement Plan system that IATA operates, and then adds IATA EasyPay, UATP card solutions, and international credit cards based on demand and desire.
Sibbald emphasizes that Hahnair’s people set it apart from competitors, with account managers who possess deep regional knowledge and maintain strong relationships with partners.
The company’s core business model addresses a fundamental challenge in the airline industry, providing distribution solutions that make airline tickets available through a vast network of travel agents.
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WorldPay provides merchant acquiring services that enable Hahnair to accept payments globally, alongside file handling services that process transaction data.
The partnership has delivered tangible results, including a significant increase in acceptance rates and cost savings.
Payment strategy ultimately serves travelers booking trips through agents, and Sibbald believes that finding a balance between providing maximum choice and frictionless experiences is key.
The company’s guiding ideal is financial inclusion, and Sibbald emphasizes that excluding people due to payment limitations contradicts the company’s mission.
Sibbald predicts that the payment setting will become more complex, with an ever-growing number of options, including country-specific ones.
It is a challenge.
