Travel technology firm Amadeus has joined the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) with view to become an active ally of the LGBTQ+ community.

Spanish travel technology firm Amadeus has joined the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), a non-profit organisation based in New York, with aims to fulfil its ambitions as an active ally of the LGBTQ+ community. 

In a press statement, Amadeus says that it has a strong track record of support for the LGBTQ+ community, becoming a supporter of the United Nations Standards of Conduct for Business for tackling discrimination against Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, and Intersex people in 2018.

The statement adds that IGLTA has a mission to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travellers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact.

“IGLTA welcomes Amadeus with open arms! Their commitment to inclusive travel experiences truly aligns with our mission to advance LGBTQ+ tourism. Their global influence adds tremendous value to our community, and we’re excited to see the collaborative opportunities their membership unlocks,” says IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella.

Amadeus adds that it is also a founding member of REDI or Red Empresarial por la Diversidad e Inclusión LGBTI+, the first Spanish business network of professionals promoting LGBTQ+ equality and inclusion at work in organisations across Spain.

The statement adds that the IGLTA has a mission to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travellers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact.

“Amadeus strives to make a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where every employee feels valued. We foster a welcoming environment that attracts top talent regardless of background, positioning Amadeus as a role model for inclusivity. We run a highly functional ally programme at Amadeus. We also focus on skilling and livelihood programmes for the LGBTQIA+ community and enabled the opening of Pride Café last year in Bengaluru,” says Shalini Nair Kumar, Head of People and Culture, APAC at Amadeus.

The statement adds that within the company, Amadeus Proud, a global employee resource group where LGBTQ+ colleagues and allies can come together, is a growing space where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression is encouraged to realise their whole self, from both a personal and professional perspective.

“We adapt our products to support all genders while recognising and respecting diverse gender identities. Leverage technology like blockchain to enhance security and privacy in document identifications, develop inclusive apps and platforms to ensure options for LGBTQ+ travellers to choose from, and utilise AI to deliver hyper-personalised recommendations, all aimed at creating a welcoming travel experience for everyone. We were delighted to be part of the second annual IGLTA LGBTQ+ Travel Symposium held in New Delhi, which focused on expanding LGBTQ+ tourism in India. As the world leaders in travel technology, it continues to be our endeavour to make travel inclusive for all,” adds Kumar.