The below questions are from you, our valued clients. Please note that the data in our responses is subject to change.
Can the Global Distribution Systems meet the airlines future distribution needs?
All major GDS companies are fully committed to using the NDC standard to connect to the airlines. The required scalability needed to support the airline industry by TMCs and other service providers is best delivered through the GDS. They’re focused on delivering a full beginning to end solution that addresses the entire experience; shop, book, service and manage the reservation which does not exist today.
Can someone take a non-refundable unused NDC ticket and exchange it directly with AA for personal travel?
Yes, if the rules of the ticket allow, it can be exchanged for a new ticket. The traveler can contact American Airlines directly and use the ticket for personal travel.
Is World Travel, Inc. auditing the NDC fares vs. what is available in the GDS?
Yes, our team of associates assigned to the NDC taskforce is responsible for all components of NDC including continued analysis of the available fares.
The difference in fares appear to be impacted mostly for reservations within 160 days of departure. Travel within five days of departure remain mostly at par with some market specific differences.
If someone is stating that they found a lower fare on aa.com as compared to the fare that was booked through the corporate online booking tool, should this information be provided to a World Travel, Inc. Travel Consultant to see if that fare is only available through NDC?
NDC is a XML based data transmission standard to distribute content and services. Yes, it is recommended that the fare is questioned as there are many reasons that can cause fare differences. The biggest reason continues to be basic economy fares. These types of fares are not recommended for corporate travel and are inhibited from our booking point of sales.
Is NDC content available through Concur Select? Will World Travel, Inc. offer it?
We can offer American Airlines NDC content via Concur Select (Travelfusion). We are open-minded to all solutions but prior to implementing Concur Select we would want the client to clearly understand its impact to their managed program. This content does not allow Concur to apply business or travel policy rules, as it is essentially an instant purchase. Once selected, you have purchased the ticket; it is not a reservation in Concur Select.
