Following a new update to its Neo booking tool, American Express Global Business Travel claims it has become the first TMC to connect to the three GDSs for online NDC content.
NEO now links to Amadeus NDC-X and Sabre’s Beyond NDC through Amex GBT's Supply Management Platform (SMP), while work to integrate with Travelport is currently ongoing. Now in pilot phase, a full release is expected in 2020.
Amex GBT has also introduced Routehappy product and amenity information into the Neo point of sale. The TMC claims users can now see more information about what is included in an air fare. The initial phase includes product information about specific aircraft, such as wifi, food choices and seat pitches. The next phase will include ticket components, such as lounge access and baggage allowance.
"The shared objective is always to provide all airline content in a way that encourages innovation, comparison shopping and customer value," the company said. "Travel managers and travellers expect TMCs to provide a comprehensive set of airline options in one shopping experience, and to avoid having to seek non-GDS fares through costly third parties or direct airline booking channels."
John Bukowski, Amex GBT’s director of content distribution, added: “Connecting with the GDSs for NDC content and with Routehappy for product and amenity information demonstrates our commitment to continue providing a complete content offering that can be shopped and compared in a transparent environment. As a standard, NDC will only work if it can help us deliver on this promise at scale to provide real value to companies and business travellers. We are focused on delivering an enhanced user experience while working with customers to ensure they continue to have control of their programs.”
GBT is also working with American Airlines, United, Delta, Air France-KLM, International Airlines Group, Qantas and other airlines on joint airline retailing initiatives.
Amex GBT claims Neo is used by 1,300,000 people worldwide.
amexglobalbusinesstravel.com/uk/neo