Understanding Sabre Commands
Sabre commands are specific instructions entered by users to execute functions within the GDS. These commands are usually short and designed for quick and efficient processing. Knowing the right commands can save time and reduce the need for excessive navigation through the system's menus.
Categories of Sabre Commands
Sabre commands can be categorized into several areas based on their functionality. Below are some of the main categories:
1. Availability and Pricing
2. Reservation Management
3. Passenger Details
4. Itinerary Management
5. Airline and Flight Information
6. End Transaction Commands
1. Availability and Pricing
Checking flight availability and pricing is one of the most common tasks travel agents and airlines perform. The following commands are essential for this purpose:
- Availability Display (AVAIL): This command displays available flights for a specific route.
- Syntax: `AVAIL [CITY1] [CITY2] [DATE]`
- Pricing Display (PRICE): This command retrieves fare information for the selected flights.
- Syntax: `PRICE [FLIGHT NUMBER]`
- Availability with Pricing (AVAIL + PRICE): Combines both availability and pricing in one command.
- Syntax: `AVAIL [CITY1] [CITY2] [DATE] /PRICE`
2. Reservation Management
Managing reservations is critical in the travel industry. Here are some key commands to handle reservations:
- Create a New Reservation (CREATE): This command allows users to book a new flight for a passenger.
- Syntax: `CREATE [PASSENGER NAME] [FLIGHT NUMBER]`
- Retrieve an Existing Reservation (RETRIEVE): This command is used to access an existing booking.
- Syntax: `RETRIEVE [RESERVATION NUMBER]`
- Cancel a Reservation (CANCEL): To cancel an existing booking, this command is utilized.
- Syntax: `CANCEL [RESERVATION NUMBER]`
- Modify a Reservation (MODIFY): This command allows users to make changes to an existing booking.
- Syntax: `MODIFY [RESERVATION NUMBER] [NEW DETAILS]`
3. Passenger Details
Inputting and managing passenger information is crucial for any travel transaction. The following commands help in managing passenger details:
- Add Passenger Information (ADD): This command is used to include passenger details during a booking.
- Syntax: `ADD [PASSENGER NAME] [DOB] [GENDER]`
- Retrieve Passenger Details (PAX): This command allows users to view passenger information linked to a reservation.
- Syntax: `PAX [RESERVATION NUMBER]`
4. Itinerary Management
Once a reservation is made, managing the itinerary is essential. Here are commands tailored for itinerary management:
- Display Itinerary (ITIN): This command shows the complete itinerary for a reservation.
- Syntax: `ITIN [RESERVATION NUMBER]`
- Email Itinerary (EMAIL): This command sends the itinerary to the passenger's email address.
- Syntax: `EMAIL [RESERVATION NUMBER] [EMAIL ADDRESS]`
- Print Itinerary (PRINT): This command allows users to print the itinerary for the passenger.
- Syntax: `PRINT [RESERVATION NUMBER]`
5. Airline and Flight Information
Understanding airline and flight specifics can aid travel professionals in providing better services. Here are some useful commands:
- Flight Status Check (STATUS): This command checks the current status of a flight.
- Syntax: `STATUS [FLIGHT NUMBER]`
- Airline Information (AIRLINE): This command retrieves details about a specific airline.
- Syntax: `AIRLINE [AIRLINE CODE]`
- Flight Schedule (SCHEDULE): This command provides the schedule for a specific flight.
- Syntax: `SCHEDULE [FLIGHT NUMBER] [DATE]`
6. End Transaction Commands
Finishing a transaction correctly is crucial for maintaining accurate records. The following commands finalize transactions:
- End Transaction (ET): This command completes the current transaction and returns the user to the main menu.
- Syntax: `ET`
- End Transaction with Confirmation (ETC): This command ends the transaction and prompts for a confirmation.
- Syntax: `ETC`
Tips for Using Sabre Commands Effectively
To maximize efficiency when using the Sabre commands, consider the following tips:
1. Familiarize Yourself with Commands: Regularly practice using the commands to become more comfortable and efficient.
2. Utilize Shortcuts: Learn keyboard shortcuts to speed up the command entry process.
3. Keep a Quick Reference Guide: Create a quick reference guide with frequently used commands for easy access.
4. Stay Updated: Sabre periodically updates its system and commands, so be sure to stay informed about any changes.
5. Practice with Real Scenarios: Engaging in real or simulated booking scenarios can enhance your practical knowledge of how to use the commands effectively.
Conclusion
The sabre commands list serves as an essential tool for travel professionals working in a fast-paced environment. Mastering the various commands allows users to efficiently manage bookings, retrieve information, and provide quick service to clients. With a solid understanding of the key commands associated with availability, reservations, passenger details, itineraries, airline information, and transaction management, travel professionals can enhance their overall productivity and customer service experience. By practicing and staying updated with the latest system changes, agents can ensure they are providing the best possible service to their clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sabre commands?
Sabre commands are specific instructions used in the Sabre Global Distribution System (GDS) to perform various travel-related tasks, such as booking flights, hotels, and managing itineraries.
How can I access the Sabre commands list?
You can access the Sabre commands list through the Sabre Red Workspace or by referring to the Sabre user manuals available on their official website.
Are Sabre commands the same for all users?
While many Sabre commands are standardized, specific commands may vary depending on the user's role and the agency's configurations.
What is the purpose of using Sabre commands?
The purpose of using Sabre commands is to streamline the booking process, improve efficiency, and allow travel agents to perform tasks quickly without navigating through multiple screens.
Can I customize Sabre commands for my agency?
Yes, agencies can customize certain Sabre commands and create shortcuts to tailor the system to their specific workflows and preferences.
What are some common Sabre commands for flight booking?
Common Sabre commands for flight booking include 'Air Itinerary', 'Availability', 'Sell', and 'Price', which help agents search for and book flights.
Where can I find training for using Sabre commands?
Training for using Sabre commands can be found through Sabre's official training programs, online tutorials, and various travel industry training platforms.
What is the difference between Sabre commands and Sabre APIs?
Sabre commands are used within the Sabre GDS interface primarily for agents, while Sabre APIs allow developers to integrate Sabre functionalities into custom applications and websites.
How do I troubleshoot issues with Sabre commands?
To troubleshoot issues with Sabre commands, check for errors in syntax, consult the command reference guide, and reach out to Sabre customer support for assistance.
What is the significance of using keyboard shortcuts in Sabre commands?
Using keyboard shortcuts in Sabre commands can significantly increase efficiency and speed for travel agents, allowing them to perform tasks without excessive mouse navigation.
