Why Corporate Travel Agents Should Transition to NDC Fare Systems

Imagine you flying internationally, stuck in the middle seat, no Wi-Fi, and a baggage allowance that doesn't cover their essentials. Now, imagine someone else who is on the same flight but they got to board first, relax in the lounge, and their internet works perfectly. The stark reality is that relying on outdated GDS systems is like trying to navigate the complexities of modern air travel with a paper map in the age of GPS. 

NDC has revolutionized the way that corporate travel agents manage bookings, by offering greater flexibility, transparency, and control over travel costs. By removing the traditional limitations on distribution, NDC allows travel agents to get real-time fares and comprehensive cost breakdowns.

Understanding NDC Fare Systems: What It Is and Why It Matters

With the rise of online booking platforms and direct airline websites, corporate travel agents want more control over their sales and customer experience. NDC allows airlines to connect directly with travel agents and customers, offering a more modern, flexible, and cost-effective way to sell their services.

Here’s how it matters:

• Faster Bookings, Less Hassle
  

NDC simplifies the booking process by allowing real-time access to airline inventory, which reduces the back-and-forth that is typically needed to manage corporate travel.

• Bigger Savings, Better Deals

When switching to NDC corporate travel agents will be able to secure lower prices and competitive packages that ensure businesses receive the most value and stay within their budget. 

• Happier, More Productive Traveler

NDC allows travel agents to offer a variety of options that are customized, including preference seating, additional baggage allowance, priority boarding and on-board Wi-Fi.

• Better Business Relationships
  

By offering customized services and competitive prices airlines that use NDC can establish stronger connections with corporate customers. Businesses are more likely to remain with airlines that recognize their needs in travel and can provide tailored solutions which can lead to long-term relationships and a greater loyalty.

The Limitations of Traditional GDS Fare Systems

Today, customers expect personalized experiences and flexible pricing, however GDS is based on outdated technology for messaging and has a very limited database exchange. This makes it difficult for airlines to present additional services, make bundles or change prices according to customer preferences.

Some of the major drawbacks of using GDS fare systems are listed below

• Rich Media Limitations

Airlines struggle to show visually superior seats, cabin experiences or elaborate rooms layouts. 

• The Standardized Messaging Barriers

The dependence on standard communication protocols prevents airlines from offering unique services leading to an uninspiring booking experience.

• Bundling and pricing inefficiencies
  

GDS architecture makes it difficult to create dynamic pricing strategies as well as create personalized bundles.

• Limitations on Ancillary Services

The GDS system's limitations stop airlines from offering additional space, lounge access or other specialized dining choices.

How NDC Redefines the Role of Travel Agents: The NDC Advantage

Today’s business travelers want more than just a basic ticket—they want options that fit their needs. Here are some great ways how NDC stays aligned with traveller’s expectations and provides travel agents sustained growth.

• Real-time Negotiation through Airlines

By switching to corporate travel NDC, agents can negotiate and settle live fares, securing better deals instantly through NDC fare systems.

• Automated Compliance with Policy

Agents for travel are able to integrate the corporate policy directly in NDC tickets and ensure that the flights are in compliance with company policies without the need for manual checkpoints.

• Seamless Bundling of Service

Corporate travel NDC permits agents to bundle hotels, flights and transportation in one transaction, thereby simplifying managing business travel and making it hassle-free for customers.

• Easy Loyalty Points Integration

With NDC ticket booking, travel agents can apply corporate rewards and loyalty points across flights, upgrades, and extra services. 

• No More GDS Surcharge Hassles 

NDC travel agents help you avoid the GDS-imposed surcharges and give corporate clients access to low-cost airline tickets.

• Instant Change Management

Using corporate travel NDC, agents can modify bookings in real-time, avoiding traditional ticketing delays.

• Direct Airline Communication

NDC ticket booking connects agents directly with airlines, which provides speedier resolutions and faster service for corporate passengers.

Future-Proofing Your Agency: Embracing NDC Fare Systems

The transition to NDC is all about the significant shift in the way that travel products are delivered and consumed in the market. NDC fare systems allow travel agents to gain access to more rich content, dynamic pricing and customized deals direct from the airlines. This straightforward approach permits the creation of custom travel experiences that are in perfect alignment with the needs of modern customers.

Since airlines are increasingly focusing on using NDC-enabled delivery, agencies that are reliant on older and rigid systems will be disadvantaged. The ability to access exclusive content as well as pricing will decrease, diminishing their capability to be competitive. 

Moving to NDC is not only about keeping up; it's about putting your agency in the forefront in the field of tourism, ready to embrace and tackle the ever evolving needs of the market.

Final Thoughts

Using outdated booking techniques could mean you miss out on live prices, exclusive deals and direct access to airways--all that are essential in the current fast-paced travel industry.

Through the NDC system, travel agencies are more flexible and can create custom price bundles, seamless ticket modifications and immediate access to more extensive content from airlines. This does not just improve efficiency but also improves the overall experience of corporate travellers, providing them with more choices and better value.

Beyond competitive pricing, NDC empowers agents to be more efficient--cutting off middlemen, decreasing booking errors, and providing the personalized service that corporate customers demand. It's more than just an upgrade, it's a new standard for business travel.

Because let’s be honest—why book the old way when you can book the smart way?

Get in touch with us today by calling 1800 889 2000 or emailing support@ndcdeals.org. Discover more about NDC Ticket Booking, and for direct bookings, visit  https://ndc.deals/