The Top 5 Airlines Advancing the NDC Revolution

March 1, 2025
NDC DEAL

There was a time when booking a flight felt like waiting in a long line for hours only to get barely anything. You would get a very basic seat, rigid booking options, and absolutely zero excitement. Airlines offered fixed fares, and there was no way to customize your experience. 

Fast forward to today, booking a flight with the right airline is like getting exclusive access to a club. Lounge access, personalized meal selections, seat upgrades, and flexible pricing that works in your favor are all available with just a few clicks.

Originating from NDC's revolutionary initiative, these upgrades seek to overcome the limitations of the current distribution system by enabling airlines to offer more personalized and dynamic pricing and tailored product offerings. 

How are NDC technology leaders redefining Airline Economics?

The adoption of New Distribution Capability (NDC) technology is not only transforming airline economics but also creating a significant social impact on the industry. By modernizing the way flights are sold and distributed, NDC is fostering greater transparency, accessibility, and personalization in air travel.

Negotiating new commercial terms with Travel Agencies

Airlines using NDC are renegotiating contracts with travel agencies to get better commercial terms. By revising agreements, they are creating a more balanced partnership, ensuring a cost-effective distribution strategy.

Reducing GDS Segment Fees for Cost Efficiency

Global Distribution System (GDS) segment fees have long been a cost burden for airlines. NDC technology leaders are now embracing and leveraging New Distribution Capability (NDC) technology to sustain customer loyalty and satisfaction.

Implementing Value-Based Incentive Programs

Airlines using NDC are introducing incentive programs that reward travel partners based on the value of sales rather than just transaction volume. This shift is enabling premium partners who drive a large chunk of the bookings to get appropriately incentivized.

Differentiated Content Strategies

Creating exclusive and relevant content that is only accessible through preferred channels, NDC technology leaders are steering bookings towards NDC-enabled platforms. This strategy is actively enhancing revenue generation potential and partnerships.

Top NDC Airlines Shifting from GDS to NDC

For years, airlines have been stuck in an outdated GDS time loop, paying sky-high distribution fees and losing control over how they sell their own tickets. 

On the economic front, top airlines using NDC are ditching expensive middlemen, taking charge of their inventory, and rolling out dynamic pricing and personalized offers. This is a social shift, too.

Travelers now get customized fares, real-time add-ons, and better deals, making the booking experience feel less rigid and limited. Smaller travel agencies are also getting a fairer shot, and sustainability is getting a boost as airlines cut down on outdated, paper-heavy processes.

The Top Airlines embracing the NDC revolution are:

Qatar Airways

Founded In 1993, Qatar Airways has grown to become one of the world's most famous airlines, well-known for its five-star customer service.  As a pioneer in NDC adoption, it revolutionized airline distribution by providing exclusive rates that are direct, dynamic pricing, and personalized travel choices.

Advantages for Travelers & Agencies:

  • Exclusive NDC-only rates tend to be less expensive than regular GDS tickets, giving agents and customers access to tickets that are more affordable.
  • It is a great option for corporate travelers and frequent flyers seeking more savings and loyalty rewards.
  • Travelers can personalize their trip by choosing premium add-ons to enhance their travel experience.
  • Travel agents can combine these services to create appealing packages for customers.
  • Dynamic pricing that is seamless ensures an accurate and timely adjustment of fare rates.

AirAsia 

As a top low-cost carrier that has a digital-first approach, AirAsia has implemented NDC in the AirAsia Super App and direct sales platforms. This means that third-party markups are no longer necessary, which allows them to offer more competitive prices and simplified travel options.

Advantages for Travelers & Agencies:

  • AirAsia utilizes AI to study traveler behavior and recommend fares and packages.
  • Aids travelers with a tight budget to get the best deal without committing to a high price.
  • Travel agencies are able to upsell customized packages, adding value for customers.
  • Travelers can make all bookings in one place without the hassle of a variety of add-on purchases.
  • Frequent flyers can benefit from greater discounts and rewards, which increases customer loyalty.

British Airways

British Airways is one of the world's longest-running and most recognizable airlines, renowned for its high-end service. They have developed an NDC-powered platform that provides extensive content, flexible booking and a variety of premium retailing options. Customers and travel agents using NDC channels are now able to access exclusive rates, seat options, and personalized upgrade options for their travel plans.

Advantages for Travelers & Agencies:

  • Direct bookers are able to save ticket prices, which makes NDC channels more appealing.
  • Travel agencies get an advantage by offering more competitive rates than traditional GDS reservations.
  • The travelers can enhance their travel experience without difficulty, making their flights more enjoyable. Experience.
  • Flexible booking options for reservations with automated refund and exchange policy.
  • NDC allows real-time changes in fare, which makes it much easier to deal with late-night cancellations or changes.

Jetstar

Jetstar has been synonymous with low-cost travel across Asia-Pacific. Having implemented sales powered by NDC, they have enhanced cost-effective travel experiences for passengers.

Advantages for Travelers & Agencies:

  • Travelers can reserve the base price and then select other extras such as meals, baggage, and seats without paying any extra fees.
  • Prices automatically adjust in response to demand so that customers get the best prices.
  • Jetstar has made booking on mobiles effortless, making it much easier for travelers to manage their flights.
  • Travel agents have access to discounted fares and special deals for clients with a tight budget.
  • Increases the sales opportunities for agencies focusing on low-cost travel.

Qantas

Established in 1920, Qantas is Australia's biggest and most reputable airline, known for its security, customer service, and expertise on long-haul flights. Qantas has created its own Qantas Distribution Platform (QDP) that allows bookings powered by NDC that provide greater transparency on the cost of travel as well as customized bundles and exclusive rewards for loyalty.

Advantages for Travelers & Agencies:

  • Contrary to GDS prices, NDC allows for real-time market-driven pricing.
  • Travelers can customize their own travel experience while avoiding unnecessary expenses.
  • Visitors can check out the layout of seats, amenities in-flight, and meal options prior to making a reservation.
  • Frequent flyers who make use of NDC channels receive additional Qantas Points, which makes it an ideal booking method.
  • Travel agencies can reward customers to purchase extra rewards.

Final Thoughts:

NDC (New Distribution Capability) has revolutionized the way airlines market tickets. The top airlines that use the technology are providing direct sales to their customers as the way of the future. They can save money by not using third-party booking systems. They also provide customers with a better experience with customized ticket packages, real-time prices, and direct communications with their passengers.

Leading airlines are embracing NDC to offer a better method of booking and experiencing travel. The list of airlines embracing NDC Deals is increasing constantly, moving towards more efficient and more convenient travel services that put the travelers' needs first.

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