automation

Refers to the use of technology to perform repetitive, rule-based, or operational travel tasks with minimal human intervention, allowing agencies, tour operators, airlines, and hotels to streamline workflows and deliver faster, more consistent service. Within Travel Operations & Distribution, it underpins everything from real-time fare updates and dynamic packaging of flights and hotels, to automated…

metasearch

is a type of online search platform that aggregates and compares travel prices—such as flights, hotels, car rentals, and sometimes activities—from multiple booking sites in real time. Rather than selling travel products directly, it functions as a powerful discovery and comparison layer, pulling live fares and availability from airlines, online travel agencies (OTAs), hotel chains,…

OTA

Is an online travel agency that sells travel products—such as flights, hotels, vacation rentals, car hire, and packaged experiences—directly to consumers through a digital platform. Operating as the most visible layer of the travel distribution ecosystem, it aggregates inventory from airlines, hotel chains, independent properties, destination management companies, and global distribution systems, presenting travelers with…