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Google closer to buying ITA

posted Apr 8, 2011, 6:12 AM by Nathan Eliason   [ updated Apr 8, 2011, 6:23 AM ]

ITA
    The data company ITA Software is used by many companies, and the U.S. Department of Justice has been closely monitoring this purchase by Google. Although the deal was announced last July, not until now has any real progress been made.
    The legal settlement would include Google keeping all existing agreements with companies that use ITA's data and technology in their services, as well as paying $700 million dollars for the company itself. Many are saying it gives Google too much power, but Google has created a site that outlines its plans with ITA. Even so, companies like Kayak, Hotwire, and Orbitz, all of which use ITA's data structures, may be letting Google get even more power.
    Here is an excerpt from the website:

  • "Google’s acquisition of ITA Software will create a new, easier way for users to find better flight information online, which should encourage more users to make their flight purchases online.
  • The acquisition will benefit passengers, airlines and online travel agencies by making it easier for users to comparison shop for flights and airfares and by driving more potential customers to airlines’ and online travel agencies’ websites. Google won’t be setting airfare prices and has no plans to sell airline tickets to consumers.
  • Because Google doesn’t currently compete against ITA Software, the deal will not change existing market shares. We are very excited about ITA Software’s QPX business, and we’re looking forward to working with current and future customers. Google will honor all existing agreements, and we’re also enthusiastic about adding new partners."



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