NDC, or New Distribution Capability, is transforming the travel industry. But What Is Ndc In Travel, and how does it benefit both travelers and travel professionals? This article explores the key advantages of NDC, detailing how it personalizes offers, streamlines booking processes, and enhances the overall travel experience.
Tailored Offers Based on Preferences
NDC allows travelers to create profiles and save their preferences. This enables airlines to offer customized options, reflecting individual needs and corporate agreements.
For example, a corporate agreement might include complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi, while a leisure traveler would pay extra for the same service. With NDC, these price differences are immediately displayed, ensuring transparency and personalized results.
Furthermore, airlines can leverage shared personal information (with consent) to create targeted offers. Lufthansa, for instance, might suggest a Bavarian brewery tour for a traveler with a long layover in Munich.
Enhanced Efficiency for Travel Agents
NDC streamlines the booking process for travel agents by consolidating services. Instead of navigating multiple airline websites, agents can manage preferred seating, baggage allowances, and catering requests through a single Global Distribution System (GDS).
Previously, booking pre-boarding or pre-paying for luggage required agents to exit the GDS. NDC enables these services to be managed in one transaction, saving time and effort.
This translates to more options and efficient service for travelers, including extra legroom, baggage fee management, comfort class upgrades, and special meal requests.
Visual Clarity and Rich Content
Built on a high-quality XML standard, NDC provides access to rich content, including visuals and videos. Travelers and agents can see exactly what they are booking. This visual representation enhances the booking experience and helps travelers make informed decisions.
For example, travelers can view the actual legroom they are purchasing or compare lounge amenities across airlines.
This also assists travel agents in communicating product differentiations beyond price and schedule, helping travelers understand the added value.
Transparent Comparison of Options
NDC facilitates a more transparent comparison of flight options. Travelers can see detailed information about the seats, lounge access, and mileage earnings on each airline.
For example, if a traveler is choosing between Air France and British Airways for a flight to Brussels, NDC can display the seat layouts, lounge offerings, and frequent flyer benefits to help them make an informed choice.
This transparency ensures travelers understand the value proposition of each option.
Integration of Low-Cost Carriers
NDC also integrates low-cost carriers, which traditionally operate outside the GDS. This expands visibility and control over air travel spending.
IATA notes that NDC enables low-cost carriers, previously selling directly to customers, to distribute their offerings through travel managers, providing more comprehensive booking options.
In conclusion, what is NDC in travel? It is a game-changing initiative that personalizes offers, enhances efficiency, provides visual clarity, and integrates low-cost carriers. These benefits contribute to a better and more transparent travel experience for both travelers and travel professionals.
