Airline software giant ends distribution service with Russia’s Aeroflot, crippling carrier’s ability to sell seats

Sabre Corp. on Thursday said it terminated a global distribution agreement with Russia’s Aeroflot, crippling the country’s largest airline’s ability to sell seats.

The Texas-based airline software giant provides airline ticket distribution and reservation services for airlines around the world. Sabre’s decision to end the distribution agreement means Aeroflot’s flights won’t show up on online travel agencies or other third party sites. It is the latest measure that has isolated Russia’s airlines since the country invaded Ukraine last week.

Boeing, General Electric and other aerospace manufacturers have suspended parts distribution and service agreements with Russia as countries, led by the U.S. and European nations, impose sanctions in protest of Russia’s invasion. The U.S. and Europe have cut Russia’s access to their airspace.

“Sabre has been monitoring the evolving situation in Ukraine with increasing concern,” Sean Menke, Sabre’s CEO, said in a statement. “We are taking a stand against this military conflict. We are complying, and will continue to comply, with sanctions imposed against Russia.”

Sabre has a separate agreement with Aeroflot that allows the airline to book passengers on its SabreSonic platform.

“The Company will continue to monitor the ongoing situation and will evaluate whether additional actions would be appropriate, taking into account legal considerations and any counter measures that could be implemented in response,” Sabre said.