International airline Cathay Pacific has signed a 10-year contract with Amadeus to roll out its customer management solution (CMS) and support expansion plans.

Cathay Pacific and Asian subsidiary Dragonair will use the Altea system to improve the efficiency of reservation, inventory and departure control systems.

The carrier already uses Amadeus’ internet booking engine to power its commercial web site, but has identified improved IT systems as a core component of plans to expand into growing markets such as China and the US.

‘The plan reflects our on-going commitment to invest in new technology to support our growth plans and commercial objectives,’ said information management director Edward Nicol.

‘We believe the new system will improve operational efficiency, productivity and customer service.’

Cathay Pacific and Dragonair carried 22 million passengers between them in 2006.