Airlines Reporting Corp. and United Airlines are testing a blockchain-based ticket reporting and settlement system with one of United's corporate customers, according to ARC. The test follows feasibility testing conducted with blockchain-based inventory booking and transaction management supplier Blockskye, in which United tickets were reported, tracked and settled through an ARC private blockchain. That initial testing "allowed us to demonstrate the innovative capabilities that this technology enables but, more importantly, to simplify the payment and booking process for the corporate travelers and their employees," according to United managing director of distribution and ancillary pricing Jeff Christensen. "Time-consuming processes, such as receipt collection for expense reports, can be greatly improved, which will give travelers more time to be productive." ARC plans to offer blockchain settlement to other airlines should the test with United and its corporate customer be successful.
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