If you've tried to book an online flight and ended up clicking through numerous tabs, wondering why your airfare shopping is like a time-travelling back to 2007, you're not the only one. While taxis, hotels, and even the local cafe have upgraded their technology and airline distribution is locked in the past too long, and hasn't been updated since.
Enter NDC The three-letter revolution is altering the way airlines sell the products, how people shop and also how the travel industry operates.
This blog will go in to NDC acceptance by airlines and examine the airlines that are utilizing NDC to improve their operations, and explain the reasons the modern distribution model for airlines is long past due for an upgrade. If you're in the market for exclusive NDC features, perks and personalised deals there's something new to offer you.
Let's take it apart. NDC which is also known as New Distribution Capability is a initiative in the industry of travel, initiated in the name of IATA (International Air Transport Association). This isn't only a software upgrade, it's an entirely new method for airlines to offer their services and content directly to their agents, platforms as well as consumers.
Consider it as follows The traditional airline systems work similar to fax machines in a Zoom world. NDC replaces outdated technology with new, APIs using XML that permit airlines to offer not just seats, but also the whole experience: seat selection, baggage options and meals, Wi-Fi access and lounge access, etc.
There's no further "one-size-fits-none" pricing. With NDC airline offerings, they become fluid, customized and full of upsell possibilities. This is contemporary airline distribution that is based on customer-first thinking, and it's taking off fast.
In the case of NDC airlines' adoption Certain airlines aren't just playing around with their ideas, they're shooting towards the next era.
Lufthansa Group was one of the first adopters, in the beginning by introducing NDC surcharges to encourage direct bookings. It's your choice They have changed the face of the industry and are now moving.
American Airlines made headlines when it moved over 40% of its content to only NDC channels, showing they're fully committed on a more efficient, adaptable retail shopping experience. This isn't just about direct sales. They've been cooperating in close collaboration with GDS partners such as Sabre as well as Amadeus to incorporate NDC seamlessly.
Air France KLM blends modernity and elegance, using NDC to provide high-quality media, bundle airfares, and ancillaries that are exclusive to the airline. every experience a customized one.
Singapore Airlines, always a leader in the industry, uses NDC to highlight its luxurious appeal, from upgrades to the cabin to regional food. With a particular focus on personalization, they're writing guidelines for engagement.
In the meantime, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Emirates, United, Finnair, and Qantas are progressively rolling out NDC capabilities, offering customized services with real-time service that was not possible prior to.
If you want to know which airlines use NDC The better query is to ask the following: who aren't?
The surge towards NDC acceptance from airlines isn't just about technology. It's about the power. For a long time airlines were enslaved to old GDS systems that had no flexibility in merchandising or pricing. With NDC the tables have shifted.
Now, airlines can:
In essence, NDC gives airlines something they've always wanted: retail freedom.
This also comes with the benefit of reducing costs. Through reducing dependence upon GDS platforms, carriers are able to reduce distribution costs and redirect funds to improve technology services, higher quality service, and more enjoyable customer experience.
Today's travellers do not just want affordable. They need the best. With NDC airlines are able to give exactly what they want.
If you believed that NDC was just an airline-related story, think again. Tourism agencies, OTAs along with TMCs are all revising their game plans to remain relevant.
Older systems? They are too for you. Displays that aren't up to date? They're boring. Agencies that use NDC pipelines are receiving live content updates, more appealing images, exclusive offers and higher conversion rates. It's an all-win situation.
With NDC Deals we've formed partnerships with global aggregators, carriers and aggregators to ensure that our customers do not just have access, they also receive the best access. Through our NDC-enabled platform we aid travel companies access more content, better pricing and customized offers that help will close deals faster.
In the event that you're an company that is stuck in the traditional GDS methods, take this as your wake-up message: NDC is not the future. This is the moment. We're here to help you succeed in it.
U.S. carriers are blazing the trails. American Airlines and United are 100% committed to the NDC model, with Delta adopting a hybrid model that combines NDC with their own solutions. Travel technology companies across the region are trying to keep up with the pace, investing a lot on NDC integration.
Europe has been the hub to some of the most bold NDC research. Lufthansa as well as Air France KLM are continuing to improve their offerings, whereas British Airways and Iberia have integrated NDC within their own distribution blueprints.
Singapore Airlines and Qantas are driving this APAC wave. While regional airlines are still experimenting The desire to innovate is high, and the pace is increasing.
Carriers such as Emirates or Qatar Airways are using NDC to create exclusive bundles and premium deals that are in line with their luxury brands. In a region renowned for excellent service standards, NDC fits right in.
The adoption rate here is slower but it is not stagnant. Airlines like LATAM as well as South African Airways are evaluating NDC options, often in partnership with tech companies to improve the old systems.
Let's be honest. NDC adoption by airlines isn't always smooth sailing.
Some of the challenges:
But none of these challenges are deal-breakers--they're just growing pains of an industry finally stepping into the 21st century. What's the benefit? It's definitely worth it.
The next phase of NDC technology is already in the works.
Here at NDC Deals we are constantly changing our offerings to keep up with the latest trends. Since modern day distribution doesn't only concerned with being "connected"--it's concerned with being pertinent.
NDC isn't just a buzzword. It's a real business model. One that connects agencies, airlines and customers closer than ever before, with smarter deals as well as seamless access to the internet and a shopping experience that is... like contemporary.
So next time you're booking an airline ticket and discover an option for a meal and seat that you would like (without having to do a PhD in fare codes) Thank NDC.
For us here at NDC Deals we're not simply being a part of it. If you're a travel-related business looking to grow and grow, let's discuss. We'll help you get out of the GDS dark times and into the new time of retailing for airlines.
Are you ready for takeoff?
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