Introduction
New Distribution Capability (NDC) has evolved from an industry buzzword to an essential component of corporate flight booking strategies. Companies implementing NDC are experiencing up to 23% cost savings while providing travellers with dramatically improved booking experiences.
What is NDC?
NDC is an XML-based data transmission standard developed by IATA that enhances communications between airlines and travel agents. Unlike traditional distribution systems, NDC creates direct connections that unlock rich content and functionality.
NDC Architecture
│ Airlines │◄────┤ NDC Standard │────►│ Travel Agencies │
│ (API Providers)│ │ (XML Protocol) │ │ & Corporates │
NDC Adoption Timeline
Year | Milestone | Impact |
2019-2021 | Early adoption phase | Limited implementation |
2022-2023 | Critical mass achieved | 65% of major airlines NDC-enabled |
2024-2025 | Advanced implementation | Rich content becomes standard |
Key Benefits for Corporate Travel
1. Enhanced Content and Personalization
- Tailored fare bundles based on company policies
- Corporate-specific ancillary services
- Dynamic pricing aligned with negotiated rates
2. Cost Efficiency and Transparency
- Direct comparison of total trip costs
- Elimination of GDS surcharges on many routes
- Access to exclusive corporate pricing
3. Policy Compliance and Duty of Care
- Pre-trip approval workflows integrated with NDC content
- Real-time policy application at point of sale
- Enhanced data for duty of care obligations
Implementation Challenges and Solutions
Common Obstacles
- Technical integration complexity
- Content fragmentation across suppliers
- Change management requirements
Effective Implementation Strategy
- Assessment Phase: Identify high-volume NDC-ready airlines
- Pilot Program: Implement with a specific department
- Full Deployment: Roll out company-wide with training
How AtYourPrice Leverages NDC
AtYourPrice’s platform provides significant advantages through:
- Unified Content Display: Seamless integration of NDC and non-NDC content
- Policy-First Architecture: Corporate policies embedded in NDC integration
- Automated Fare Comparison: Proprietary algorithm ensures the best value
- Comprehensive Reporting: Detailed analytics showing tangible ROI
Future Trends
The NDC landscape continues to evolve with:
- Advanced Machine Learning Applications
- Predictive pricing models
- Automated policy adjustments
- API Standardization
- Movement toward industry-wide standardisation
- Reduced integration complexity
- Sustainability Features
- Carbon calculation and offsetting
- Comparative sustainability metrics
Conclusion
NDC has transitioned from an optional enhancement to a strategic necessity. Organisations partnering with AtYourPrice can:
- Reduce booking costs by up to 18%
- Improve traveler satisfaction by over 30%
- Enhance duty of care capabilities
Ready to revolutionize your corporate flight booking with NDC? Sign up for a free AtYourPrice demonstration today.
