Strengthening Odisha’s Air Connectivity: Why Travel Agents Must Rethink GDS Usage

Odisha’s travel market has evolved significantly over the past decade. The growing outbound demand, particularly toward Western countries, and the recent establishment of VFS Global services in the state are clear indicators of expanding international travel potential. However, while demand is rising, the state’s airline statistics often fail to reflect its true market strength. A major reason lies in booking practices. Many travel agents in Odisha continue to issue tickets through metro-based consolidators and B2B portals without first creating PNRs through Global Distribution Systems (GDS) or airline B2B platforms. While commercially convenient, this approach limits the visibility of Odisha’s real traffic potential in airline data systems. Airlines allocate capacity, evaluate routes, and consider direct connectivity based on statistical demand patterns. When bookings bypass GDS or airline systems at the local level, Odisha’s contribution gets masked under metro-originated data.

Why GDS Usage Matters

Using a GDS to create Passenger Name Records (PNRs) — even if the ticket is ultimately issued by a partnered wholesaler — ensures that:

• The booking reflects Odisha’s origin market

• Airlines recognise local agent activity

• Market demand becomes statistically visible

• Future connectivity decisions are better informed

Importantly, even non-IATA accredited agents can create PNRs in GDS and queue them to their partnered wholesalers for ticket issuance - a process widely known as offline ticketing. Most wholesalers extend credit facilities for such procedures. IATA-accredited agents may also choose similar routing methods strategically when managing financial exposure, though direct issuance remains ideal for long-term growth and airline relationships.

Airline B2B Portals for LCCs

For low-cost carriers such as IndiGo and similar airlines, agents are encouraged to use official airline B2B portals rather than third-party consolidator portals. This ensures direct recognition of the state’s traffic contribution. Using official systems strengthens local visibility and enhances professional credibility.

The VFS Global Example

The launch of VFS Global services in Odisha from 01 April 2026 (covering UK Visa and select Schengen countries ) is a strong validation of the state’s outbound potential. This development, second only to Kolkata in Eastern India, reflects sustained advocacy and community effort. Post-pandemic initiatives like VIYC (Visa In Your City), driven by collective engagement, enabled biometric services across Bhubaneswar, Jharsuguda, and other locations. This demonstrated that structured industry push can reshape infrastructure access.

Similarly, disciplined booking practices can strengthen the case for enhanced international air connectivity from Odisha.

A Call for Structured Professional Practice

The travel trade community has the power to influence long-term aviation growth. By adopting structured booking discipline:

• Use GDS for full-service carriers (Air India, Emirates, Singapore Air, Lufthansa & etc)

• Use official airline B2B portals for LCCs

• Encourage IATA accreditation for long-term professional strength

• Maintain strategic partnerships with wholesalers when required

Agents can simultaneously protect their commercial interests and contribute to the state’s broader aviation ecosystem.

Beyond Transactions — Toward Transformation

Tourism growth is not only about selling tickets; it is about shaping infrastructure. Every PNR created through the right channel strengthens Odisha’s statistical visibility. Every disciplined practice builds credibility.

If Odisha must aspire for greater global connectivity, the journey begins at the booking desk.