Paytm Partners with Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Wego to Expand Online Travel Services

One 97 Communications (OCL), the parent company of fintech giant Paytm, has announced strategic partnerships with global travel aggregators Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Wego to bolster its presence in the online travel segment. These alliances aim to enhance Paytm's market share and offer customers a seamless travel booking experience.

In a statement released on Monday, Paytm reported a 19% year-on-year (y-o-y) increase in total flight bookings for the March quarter. Additionally, international flight bookings on the platform saw a 15% y-o-y rise in April. "Our partnerships with global travel aggregators and leading airlines, combined with the integration of artificial intelligence, underscore our dedication to providing seamless, convenient, and competitive travel solutions. As we continue to innovate and grow, we aim to deliver exceptional value and a superior travel experience to our customers,” said a Paytm spokesperson.

Diversifying Revenue Streams

These new collaborations follow Paytm's recent partnership with Samsung, which enables flight, bus, movie, and event ticket bookings through Samsung Wallet. This move is part of Paytm's broader strategy to diversify its revenue streams in the wake of regulatory actions by the Reserve Bank of India. The RBI barred Paytm Payments Bank Ltd from accepting new deposits and providing banking services post-March 15.

Technological Advancements and New Integrations

In 2023, Paytm integrated its New Distribution Capability (NDC) with global travel technology firm Amadeus. This initiative initially included Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways on the NDCx platform and has since expanded with the addition of Eva Airways. The NDC integration leverages AI-powered features to enhance the booking experience, offering personalized travel options and packages directly from airlines.

Expanding Carrier Partnerships

Paytm Travel has also added three international carriers—Cambodia Angkor Air, SalamAir, and FlyDubai—to its platform. Domestically, the company has partnered with new bus operators, including Mettur, aiming to extend its services to customers in smaller cities and towns. Additionally, Paytm has introduced a free cancellation service across its travel categories, including trains, buses, and flights, providing greater flexibility and convenience for travelers.

With these strategic partnerships and technological advancements, Paytm is well-positioned to capture a larger share of the online travel market. The company's focus on integrating AI and expanding its range of services underscores its commitment to offering a superior travel experience. As Paytm continues to innovate and adapt, it aims to meet the evolving needs of its customers and maintain its competitive edge in the fintech and travel sectors.