SAO PAULO, Brazil, Aug. 3, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. (NYSE:GOL) (Bovespa:GOLL4), Brazil's only low-cost, low-fare airline, registered 74% of sales through the Internet in the first half of 2004, which is 35% higher than the average recorded in 2003 (58% of total sales) and 90% above that recorded in 2002 (39%). This figure rates GOL among the low-cost, low-fare leaders in an international market that realizes an average of 70% of their sales through electronic channels.
For Internet transactions, GOL uses an IT solution designed by Navitaire. This system allows on-line transactions through GOL's website (www.golnaweb.com.br) and considerably reduces booking costs in comparison with GDS (Global Distribution Systems), distribution systems used by traditional airlines. For the client, this improvement in technology means lower tariffs and more comfort during their travels.
"As the Internet is our main sales channel, decisions regarding our e-commerce strategy are extremely important to our success. We believe we have made the right decisions, and our customers agree. A recent study indicated that 89% of our clients were satisfied or very satisfied with the services they received through our website," said Wilson Ramos, Vice-President - Information Technology and Administration.
On-line services for passengers
In addition to the convenience of being able to buy tickets via the Internet, anytime, anywhere, and having the option to check-in for flights on-line at their homes or offices, passengers and travel agents now have a new tool that guarantees more comfort and flexibility: "On-line Updates." This resource, which was previously offered only through our Call Center (0300-7892121), offers even more convenience by allowing changes to be made on purchases made through the Internet.
To make on-line changes, the passenger should be registered at GOL's website (www.voegol.com.br) and select the link for "My Trips," located on the homepage header. If the transaction generates a credit, the passenger will be informed immediately and offered a refund option. If there is a difference to be paid, the system will charge it directly to the customer's credit card.
Internet Sales Growth
2002 2003 YTD 2004
---- ---- ----------
Sales through Internet 39% 58% 74%
Source: Company - June 2004
About GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes
GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes, a "low-cost, low-fare" airline, is one of the most profitable airlines in the industry worldwide. By meeting demand for service to underserved markets, GOL achieved 23% share of the Brazilian domestic market in the first quarter of 2004 (1Q04) after just three years of operations. GOL operates a simplified fleet with a single-class of service and has one of the youngest and most modern fleets in the industry, leading to low maintenance, fuel and training costs, and therefore high aircraft utilization and efficiency ratios. Add to this safe and reliable service, stimulating GOL's brand recognition and customer satisfaction, and GOL has the best cost-benefit service in the market. GOL currently offers service to 29 major business and travel destinations in Brazil, with substantial expansion opportunities. In 2004, GOL plans to grow by increasing frequencies in existing markets and adding service to additional markets in both Brazil and other high-traffic South American travel destinations.
For investor relations information, please access www.voegol.com.br (investor relations section), e-mail: ri@golnaweb.com.br
This release contains forward-looking statements relating to the prospects of the business, estimates for operating and financial results, and those related to growth prospects of GOL. These are merely projections and, as such, are based exclusively on the expectations of GOL's management concerning the future of the business and its continued access to capital to fund the Company's business plan. Such forward-looking statements depend, substantially, on changes in market conditions, government regulations, competitive pressures, the performance of the Brazilian economy and the industry, among other factors and risks disclosed in GOL's filed disclosure documents and are, therefore, subject to change without prior notice.