Michael Curmi named managing director, sales & distribution at Porter

Michael Curmi has started a new role at Porter Airlines as managing director of sales and distribution, PAX has learned.

Mr. Curmi, who has worked at Porter for more than a decade, officially began the leadership position in May.

“I am excited and ready to take on this leadership role for the entire sales and distribution team at a pivotal point in Porter's evolution,” Curmi told PAX in a statement. “The role is very meaningful to me personally and I don't take the responsibility lightly.  We have a lot of work ahead of us to introduce Porter in many new markets.”

One of the tasks ahead include taking delivery of 50 new Embraer E195-E2s by the end of 2024, and up to 100 over the next several years.

“This is already underway and our team is 100 per cent committed to the success of Porter's expansion strategy,” Curmi said.

As managing director of sales and distribution, Curmi said his role is to focus the team on sales activities that support plans to develop a comprehensive North American route network, together with Porter’s travel agency and corporate partners. 

READ MORE: Inside Porter's new Embraer E195-E2 & mission to remove "pain points" from economy

“Our focus is obviously to generate quality revenue and grow Porter's share of the market.  There are many new business relationships being established right across the country, particularly in Western Canada, as we build Porter's presence in all new markets,” Curmi said.

“It is important that we continue to nurture the strong relationships that we have built with partners and clients over the years by supporting them and making it even easier to do business with Porter than ever before.”

Expanding B2B distribution & NDC

Another area of focus, he said, will be to expand on Porter’s B2B distribution capabilities and take steps toward implementing NDC to broaden the airline’s suite of products available for booking by the trade.

READ MORE: "Unlike anything that Calgarians have experienced": Porter arrives in Calgary

“This includes dynamic fare options, ancillary products, and attractive fare bundles,” Curmi said. “It certainly is an exciting time here at Porter and I look forward to achieving strong results and success through the contributions of every member of our highly experienced and engaged team.”

His message to partners and the trade? 

“Our entire sales team is still here to support our partners, whether you deal with managed travel, agencies, distribution, groups or other areas,” Curmi said. “My role just helps to consolidate our efforts.”

He noted that the trade has supported Porter “from day one,” back in 2006, and “this has helped us get to this pivotal stage that provides many opportunities for partners.”

“Porter recently made substantial investments to deliver a far superior economy product and enjoyable passenger experience for everyone," Curmi added. "Our team will be working to ensure we have a mutually-beneficial partnership."

Curmi is reminding the trade that Porter offers attractive discount rates for IATA-approved travel agents to try its elevated economy experience and fly Porter on their next trip. 

Travel advisors that are interested in this can email a request to agency.promotions@flyporter.com.

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