(Sharecast News) - On the Beach said on Tuesday that it has signed a long-term distribution agreement with Ryanair, despite the latter having recently branded the online travel agent a "pirate" and accused it of marking up prices.
OTB said the agreement "represents a transformational shift" in its relationship with its most significant low-cost carrier.
"It enables OTB customers to seamlessly access Ryanair's low fare flights as part of their holiday packages with full price transparency, whilst continuing to benefit from OTB's flexible payment plans, customer perks (including free lounge and fast track), and ATOL protection," it said.
The agreement secures OTB free and fair access to Ryanair seat supply, facilitates a smoother customer journey when booking Ryanair flights as part of an OTB package, and simplifies OTB operations.
OTB chief executive Shaun Morton said: "We are excited to have entered into this transformational partnership with Ryanair. This will improve the booking and travel experience for our customers selecting Ryanair flights, while ensuring we can continue to provide customers with best value package holidays.
"We will continue our campaign to safeguard consumer choice in the travel sector and the signing of this agreement marks a significant milestone in On the Beach's journey, as we strive to do the best for our customers. Importantly, this agreement enables both parties to move on from outstanding litigation and we look forward to working closely with our new partner."
Ryanair's director of marketing, communications and digital, Dara Brady, said: "Ryanair is pleased to announce our latest partnership with leading OTA, On the Beach. This new deal will see Ryanair partner with its fourth approved OTA partner.
"On the Beach customers can now book Ryanair flights, seats, and bags as part of their holiday package with the guarantee that they will have full price transparency of Ryanair products (without any overcharges), and that they will receive any information regarding their flight directly from Ryanair as well as having direct access to their booking through their myRyanair account."
