About Global Distribution Systems

What is GDS?

The Global Distribution System (GDS) is the key booking platform used by travel agents to find, compare and book flights, hotels and other travel services worldwide.  Major systems such as Amadeus, Sabre and  Galileo connect agencies directly with airlines and travel suppliers, driving billions in global sales. 

Why should I learn a GDS course?

Major travel organisations and professionals use a Global Distribution System (GDS) coordinate travel arrangements holistically from flights, to hotels to car rental. Travel companies look for candidates with strong GDS skills.

Which GDS course should I choose?

OTT recommends Amadeus if you are based in Europe and most of the world because its is the most popular and frequently used GDS. Sabre is most popular in the US market, whilst Galileo should be taken by anyone working in the African and Middle East market.

Internationally recognised training

All GDS courses are internationally recognised certifications. You will receive an accredited certificate on completion of the course.

Self-paced training

Our self paced modules provide a generous access period for which to complete your chosen course, so you will be sure to complete your course without rushed deadlines, in your available time to maximise your learning experience. However, be sure to check your course deadlines and expiration dates.

Interactive learning in the comfort of your own environment

Courses allow learners to work on an exact replica of the system, while in the comfort of your chosen environment. Not only is this a non-pressure environment in which to learn but also promotes real interaction with the system. Scenarios and first-hand experience will give you the expertise you need, transforming knowledge to skill, while testing your learning throughout to ensure you receive your accredited certificate.

Certification

Upon successful completion and passing of applicable tests for your chosen course, you will be awarded a globally recognised GDS certificate that details your level of achievement within your chosen GDS. OTT global network of business partners includes travel agents, tour operators, hotel and car groups, plus many more, making your proficiency recognisable to the global travel and tourism industry.

Friendly technology

To complete the course, all you will need is an internet connection. A few simple clicks and you will be instantly starting your course of session. We will of course assist you to connect - follow the simple instructions you receive once you have completed your payment.

Please find below some Frequently Asked Questions about GDS Training. If your questions isn't covered here please use the Contact us form to get in touch.

After registering, when will I get my login details?
Access to the course is not immediate and depends on the course you purchased. Please see below some guidelines by course suppliers:
For GDS courses, you should expect your login details and instructions to be emailed to you within 24-48 hours.
All Orders made on Saturdays and Sundays will be processed on Mondays. Please email [email protected] for all other enquiries.

Can I cancel my order?
You have the right to withdraw from this contract/purchase within 14 days without giving any reason. The withdrawal period will expire after 14 days from the day on which you confirm your order.
If you have already started the course within 14 days of placing the order, you are subject to supplier’s terms and conditions regarding refund.

Am I entitled to a refund?
You can cancel the course and receive your money back within the 14-day period from initial purchase. If you have already started the course within 14 days of placing the order, you are subject to supplier’s terms and conditions regarding refund.
Failure to complete the training (or any part of it) will not entitle you to receive a discount or refund of any kind.

What are the minimum system requirements?
You should have an up-to-date browser and a good internet connection. No specific system is required to install them, however Google Chrome is recommended.
Unfortunately, OTT is not able to provide basic computer literacy and skills training.

Is the exam online only?
Yes, for all of our courses the exams are online only.

I have passed, how do I get my certificate?
For GDS courses, if you have successfully passed the course, please contact us at [email protected]. If you achieve 80% or more in all the final exams you are entitled to a free Online Travel Training certificate. Simply email [email protected] to request one. We will check your score and send you an online certificate to your registered email ID free of charge. 

Can I use the course and gain a certificate in any country?
Yes, because all our courses are done online, all you need is an internet connection and an up-to-date browser to log in and proceed. We send certificates to any country in the world.

I cannot order through the website/I do not have a credit card; how can I order a course?
The easiest alternate method to order a course is through PayPal. It is fast and secure. Email [email protected] with your name, postal address, and the course you would like to order. We will then send you a PayPal request via email. Once payment is received for the course, we will set up your account.

Can someone else buy a course for me?
Yes, it is fine for someone else to pay for the course, we just need to receive an e-mail with the name and email address of the person that is going to take the course.

Can I pay for a course by American Express card?
No, unfortunately we do not accept American Express cards.

How long do I have to complete my GDS course?
Courses with an allocated time (e.g. 20 hours, 45 hours, and 90 hours) expire when the full time is used. The course must be completed within 180 days (6-month's) of initial login. Extensions can be purchased on our website.

Does the 6-month deadline start from the day I purchase the course or from the day I first login?
The 6-month deadline begins from the day you first login.

Can I only take the exam once?
As long as you have time left on your course, you can re-take the exams as many times as you need to pass the course.

Can I take the course in another language?
The courses can only be completed in English, so a basic level of understanding of English is needed.

Can I make real bookings with the GDS you provide?
No, we only provide training courses which Emulate the real GDS System. So, the system you will be using on our courses is the same system as the real GDS, but can only be used for training purposes. You will be given exercises to do on this GDS Emulator which will prepare you and teach you how to make real life bookings and changes on a GDS.