Airlink to implement new distribution capability

The transition and implementation of NDC (version 21.3) follows over a year’s work by Airlink’s commercial department to refine and enhance the airline’s distribution capabilities so they remain relevant and in-step with global industry distribution advances.

The International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) NDC enhances the way airlines and trade partners interact and enables travel content to be presented in a richer format designed for better shopping, booking and upsell opportunities for agents.   

NDC has been introduced to replace the 1980’s-designed Electronic Data Interchange for Administration, Commerce and Transport (EDIFACT) protocol.

“By introducing NDC, Airlink and its industry partners can start taking advantage of the way airlines content is made available.  Importantly, this allows us to reduce costs while also enhancing our competitiveness,” said Rodger Foster, CEO and Managing Director, Airlink. 

“The introduction of IATA NDC by Airlink will provide our partner agents with an unparalleled level of service and access to richer content.  Partner agents can seamlessly service their bookings, manage ancillary services, provide real-time updates, and resolve customer inquiries promptly,” added Foster. 

“Ultimately, this is about ensuring Airlink remains abreast of industry best practices while strengthening long-term sustainability and providing significantly-enhanced benefits for our trade partners and joint customers,” he said.