COMPUTERISED OVERSEAS ROUTES
AA COMPUTER AIDS ''GB'' MOTORISTS
19th December, 1986
In a major development which will assist thousands of GB motorists heading for continental holidays the AA's Overseas Route Service for Western Europe is to be computerised.
At its heart will be a massive European database - constantly updated - producing individually tailored itineraries.
The high-tech routes will replace the hand compiled AA maps which have been used by millions of travellers since 1969 and will offer an unprecedented amount of detail.
The computerised routes, available from next March, will include comprehensive route and touring information, supplemented by details on places of interest, landmarks, scenery and even gradients. Motorway regulations, tolls, sign posting, distances and facilities at motorway service areas will all be included.
Tim Sullivan, Service Director AA Travel said: ''The aim is simple - to use computer-power to provide a truly personal service. It will even prepare 'specials' for motorists towing caravans, those wanting scenic tours or simply wanting to avoid tolls.
Although the service will not become operational until March, we are expecting tremendous demand. Routes for the summer ordered before then will be despatched as soon as the computer comes on-line.''
The system, producing 50,000 routes a year, was designed by AA experts, in collaboration with transport systems consultants Wootton Jeffreys, who also worked on the successful computerisation of the Association's Home Routes Service two years ago.
Routes will be available to AA members for £3.75 with an additional fee of £3 payable by non-members. They can be ordered from AA Centres nationwide.
Copy of a press release presented to the Travel Writers of the National papers. Friday 19th December, 1986