Travel technology provider TPConnects has adopted IATA New Distribution Capability’s (NDC) XML-based data transmission standard into its Travel Aggregator platform, touted to give travel agents the capability to access features and options typically available only through airline websites.
Agents using TPConnects’ aggregator platform will be able to perform transactions via a rich interface, much like airline websites, and will for the first time be able to view and purchase the airline’s entire portfolio of products including ancillaries, customised offers, add-ons and promotional fares.
With volume business, airlines are now able to negotiate better rates from the non-air product suppliers, said TPConnects in a press release. Alternatively, the switch model enables the travel agents to plug their own credentials and contracted rates from suppliers.
Kristine Fernandez, director business development at TPConnects, said: “With the airline industry under extreme financial pressure (and) stiff competition (while) consumers grow increasingly tech-savvy and mobile, TPConnects booking and distribution tool with NDC standard assist airlines to adopt a merchandising strategy that not only takes the need of traveller into account, but also achieves the main goal of airline to increase its profits and shift from a service provider to a retailer.”
Middle Eastern airline Rotana Jet was the first carrier to adopt TPConnects’ product, announced Tony Tyler, director general of IATA during the IATA Middle East and Africa Aviation Day in Abu Dhabi on October 27, 2015.