Jet inks $62 mn IT services deal with IBM

MUMBAI/BANGALORE - India’s premier private carrier Jet Airways Tuesday said it has signed a 10-year business transformation and information technology services agreement with global IT major IBM for $62 million.

“We plans to leverage IBM’s domain knowledge of the global airline industry and its technology leadership to meet our business transformation objectives,” said Jet Chief Executive Nikos Kardassis.

As part of the deal, IBM will provide cutting-edge technology solutions to transform the airline’s business areas such as airport operations, direct distribution and frequent flier programmes.

The engagement will help the leading airline improve and integrate its IT systems to deliver a differentiated customer experience and improve its operational efficiency.

“Constant innovation to stay ahead of industry growth has been our operating philosophy since we commenced operations in 1993. The pact will enable Jet to focus on its core business and improve operational efficiencies, besides delivering a seamless customer experience,” Kardassis said.

IBM’s India subsidiary will support Jet with IT Infrastructure and application support services, including employee transition, data centre operations, central helpdesk support, server and storage operations, internet security services through the use of Tivoli suite, network management, SAP and other operating system.

“The agreement with Jet is a significant milestone for us in the aviation industry as it will have access to industry expertise and knowledge, which are essential for sustaining growth and leadership in the competitive global market,” IBM India vice-president Sameer Batra said.