Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 14 (IANS) Four leading airlines have joined hands with IT firm IBS Software to launch an airline manpower management solution that will enable them to plan cost effective and efficient operation of their fleet with an optimal level of trained crew members.

Air Astana, easyJet, Malaysia Airlines and Qatar Airways together with IBS, formed the Core Group of Influence (CGI) to develop the new IT solution.

'The CGI is an innovative approach for product development adopted by IBS and we are delighted to have such reputed names partnering with us in creating the manpower management solution,' V.K. Mathews, chairman and CEO, IBS Group, told reporters here Thursday.

Describing a manpower planning system as a strategic business planning tool, Mathews said: 'In addition to business consultancy, what we offer is a pioneering product that captures the industry requirements, enhances operational efficiency whilst reducing operational costs'.

The solution is the first of its kind and goes way beyond the traditional thinking in the area of airline crew management. It enables faster, smarter crew allocation decisions leading to a reduction in crew costs through improved recruitment plans, training plans and crew movement profiles.

Manpower management is a key part of an airline's crew management function. Crew costs typically represent around 20 percent of an airline's cost base.

'This new solution is a culmination of extensive R&D over a period of 14 months requiring significant commitment of resources and investment. The CGI members have worked closely with IBS in the development phases, as well as evaluation and testing of early product releases,' Mathews said.

IBS, with its headquarters at Technopark in Thiruvananthapuram, provides IT solutions to the travel, transportation and logistics industries.