NDC Update: A Radical Change to Travel Distribution?

Summary

Is IATA’s New Distribution Capability (NDC) simply a new XML standard or the catalyst for a revamped distribution ecosystem? Is NDC a threat to the existing world order of travel distribution currently composed of global distribution systems (GDSs), travel management companies (TMCs) and online travel agencies (OTAs)? Will NDC be better for travelers, or just better for airlines? Phocuswright’s August 2013 Spotlight “Direct Connect and Ancillaries for Airlines: New Distribution Capability” discussed the proposed IATA NDC Resolution 787 standard in respect to ancillary airline products and the GDS efforts to bring merchandising to the travel agent desktop. This Spotlight is an update on NDC progress to date, highlighting the successes, challenges and the ongoing controversy.