Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the launch of the "official direct sales platform" by Hanglv Zongheng, which integrates resources from 38 airlines to sell tickets directly, promising "0 markup, 0 bundling, 0 tricks" [4][5]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - The ticketing market has long been a battleground among airlines, OTAs, ticket agents, and consumers, with issues like bundling sales and price discrimination frequently arising [5]. - Hanglv Zongheng's entry into the market aims to either reform the industry or follow the path of existing OTAs [5]. Group 2: Source Ticket Value Dilemma - "Source tickets" are highlighted as a key feature of Hanglv Zongheng, emphasizing transparency and adherence to airline rules [6][12]. - However, source tickets are not necessarily cheaper than those on other platforms, with examples showing Hanglv Zongheng's prices being higher than Ctrip by 50-100 yuan for certain routes [8][11]. - The pricing structure in the airline industry is complex, involving base fares set by airlines, distribution through GDS, and additional fees from OTAs and agents [8][10]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Hanglv Zongheng has garnered support from major airlines, positioning itself as a competitor to existing OTAs [15][16]. - The historical context shows a shift in power dynamics from OTAs to airlines, especially after the 2015 commission reform [16][19]. - Airlines are increasingly seeking to enhance their direct sales channels, with regulatory pressure to increase direct sales to 40% by 2025 [18][19]. Group 4: Challenges Ahead - Despite its official backing, Hanglv Zongheng faces significant challenges in competing with established OTAs, particularly in user experience and service capabilities [24][26]. - The platform's ability to maintain a non-commission model while investing in technology and marketing is crucial for its sustainability [26]. - Price remains a critical factor for consumers, with 76% prioritizing it over transparency in ticketing [27][28]. Group 5: Future Implications - While Hanglv Zongheng may capture a portion of the market, it is unlikely to disrupt the existing OTA landscape significantly [28]. - The entry of a state-backed platform could lead to more competitive practices among OTAs, ultimately benefiting consumers with better options [29].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the launch of the "official direct sales platform" by Hanglv Zongheng, which integrates resources from 38 airlines to sell tickets directly, aiming for transparency and no hidden fees, but faces mixed reactions from users regarding pricing and service quality [5][6][17]. Summary by Sections Launch of the Platform - Hanglv Zongheng announced the integration of 38 airlines to create a direct sales platform for tickets, promising "0 markup, 0 bundling, 0 tricks" [5][6]. - Major airlines like Air China, China Southern Airlines, and China Eastern Airlines support this initiative, treating it as an important direct sales channel [5][17]. User Reactions - The platform has received both praise and criticism; some users appreciate the additional channel, while others question its motives and pricing strategies [5][6]. - Complaints on platforms like Black Cat have surged, with over 13,000 complaints related to ticketing issues by August 18 [5][6]. Pricing and Value Proposition - The "source ticket" concept is central to Hanglv Zongheng's strategy, but initial pricing comparisons show that tickets are often more expensive than those on other platforms like Ctrip [8][10]. - The pricing structure involves a complex system where airlines set base fares, which are then distributed through GDS, leading to potential price discrepancies [10][11]. Industry Dynamics - The article outlines the historical context of the airline and OTA relationship, highlighting a shift towards direct sales initiated by airlines to reduce reliance on OTAs [17][20]. - The 2024 regulation aims to increase direct sales to 40% by 2025, indicating a growing trend towards self-distribution by airlines [20][22]. Competitive Landscape - Hanglv Zongheng faces significant competition from established OTAs, which have diversified revenue streams and strong customer service capabilities [30][31]. - The platform's unique position as a state-backed entity may not guarantee exclusive pricing advantages, as airlines maintain consistent pricing across all channels [32]. Future Outlook - While Hanglv Zongheng may capture a niche market of price-sensitive customers, it is unlikely to disrupt the existing OTA landscape significantly in the short term [32][33]. - The entry of a state-backed platform could lead to more competitive practices among OTAs, ultimately benefiting consumers with better options [33].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the launch of the "official direct sales platform" by Hanglv Zongheng, which integrates resources from 38 airlines to sell tickets directly, aiming for transparency and eliminating hidden fees, but faces skepticism regarding its pricing strategy and potential competition with existing OTA platforms [5][6][16]. Group 1: Launch and Support - Hanglv Zongheng announced the integration of 38 airlines to create a direct sales platform for tickets, promising "0 markup, 0 bundling, 0 tricks" [6]. - Major airlines like Air China, China Southern Airlines, and China Eastern Airlines have expressed support for this initiative, positioning it as a significant direct sales channel [16][17]. - The platform is compared to "the civil aviation version of 12306," indicating its official backing and potential to reshape the ticketing landscape [6][8]. Group 2: Pricing and Market Position - Despite the promise of "source tickets," prices on Hanglv Zongheng are often higher than those on OTA platforms like Ctrip, with differences ranging from 50 to 100 yuan for certain routes [8][10]. - The pricing structure in the airline industry is complex, with airlines setting base fares influenced by various factors, and the final price often includes additional fees from OTAs or agents [10][12]. - Hanglv Zongheng's "source tickets" are not necessarily cheaper, as the platform aims to build trust through transparency rather than competing solely on price [12][14]. Group 3: Industry Dynamics - The relationship between airlines and OTAs has been historically contentious, with airlines seeking to reduce dependency on OTAs and increase direct sales [19][22]. - The introduction of Hanglv Zongheng is seen as a strategic move to balance the power dynamics between airlines and OTAs, allowing airlines to gain more control over pricing and distribution [22][23]. - The push for direct sales is further supported by regulatory changes aimed at increasing the proportion of direct sales by airlines [20][21]. Group 4: Challenges and Future Outlook - Hanglv Zongheng faces significant challenges in competing with established OTAs, particularly in user experience, customer service, and comprehensive travel solutions [26][27]. - The platform's ability to attract price-sensitive customers may be limited, as many users prioritize price over transparency, making it difficult to disrupt the existing OTA market [29][30]. - While Hanglv Zongheng may capture a niche market of users seeking transparency, it is unlikely to significantly alter the competitive landscape in the short term [30].