Sabre, American start to implement NDC standards
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Sabre and American Airlines have started offering the carrier’s Preferred and Main Cabin Extra seats through the GDS using NDC-based technology standards.
This launch represents both companies’ first implementation of NDC technology standards for ancillary products and services sold through a global distribution system (GDS).
Effective this month, American’ Preferred and Main Cabin Extra seats will be made available to travel agents using the Sabre GDS.
Main Cabin Extra is American’s premium economy product, providing passengers with up to six inches (15cm) of extra legroom and priority boarding. Preferred seats allow passengers to select window or aisle seats, or those located toward the front of the cabin.
The NDC, or New Distribution Capability, is an IATA-led initiative aimed at improving how airline products and services are sold through the GDS.
“Sabre and American Airlines have a long history of reaching innovative firsts together so it makes sense that we would cross this milestone together,” said Sean Menke, president of Sabre Travel Network. “Our ‘Air Extras’ solutions offer airlines an opportunity to capture more revenue on ancillary products and support their omni-channel merchandising strategies.”
Cory Garner, managing director of distribution for American Airlines, said that the company’s “long-time goal” is to offer its products “through as many channels as possible”.
Approximately 60 airlines now sell their ancillary services through Sabre, and the GDS company said this number is “expected to increase significantly this year”.
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