Booking flights online has been a frustrating process due to rigid reservation systems, multiple bookings for families, and a lack of extra options such as mixing seat classes. Soon, we will say goodbye to this old booking flow thanks to a new technology where flights may be bought like Amazon.
Why the Old Airline Booking Flow is Outdated
The old airline booking process has been a rigid step-by-step reservation process. One that families have to create multiple bookings just to combine different seat classes or luggage allowances. According to Alex Mans, CEO of Flyr, a travel tech company, almost every retailing experience has a shopping cart.
Unfortunately, besides the presence of modern retail models in other retail sectors, airlines are still following the traditional reservation system that has limitations.
Airline Booking Gets a Shopping Cart
There is a need for air travel to catch up by adopting a modern flight booking platform that can allow travelers to customize their preferences. With a modern platform similar to a shopping cart, travelers will be able to:
- Book multiple flights in one transaction
- Mix cabin classes (for example, business and economy classes) in one single booking.
- Add extras like seat upgrades, priority boarding, and luggage allowances without multiple bookings
Besides flights, airlines will also be able to sell car rentals, insurance, hotels, and eSIM cards for international travel. Besides offering a single checkout experience, the new Amazon-like booking system will enable airlines to compete with online travel agencies.
NDC Technology Redefines the Airline Booking Experience
The Amazon-like booking system will be made possible by a new airline booking model known as the New Distribution Capability (NDC). NDC is an industry-standard, XML based data format developed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Unlike the traditional Global Distribution System that only displayed fares and eliminated most product details, NDC will have an offer-and-order framework. This framework will allow airlines to create richer and more personalized offers and distribute them across any sales channel.
Travelers will be able to customize their booking in just one cart. Airlines will be able to offer bundled ancillaries, dynamic pricing, and branded fares all in real-time. Travel sellers will also be able to offer rich content beyond just price-driven listings.
Riyadh Air Pioneers the First Fully Digital Airline Experience
Later this year, Riyadh Air in Saudi Arabia will serve as the first real-world test of the new booking model. In partnership with Flyr, Riyadh Air will start using the offer-and-order technology instead of the legacy passenger service systems.
If the adoption of this new system works, it could redefine global airline booking standards.
What Travelers Can Expect Next
According to Amadeus, nearly 30% of airline sales are expected to be through NDS-powered systems by 2026. So far, more than one in five airlines are aiming to become a retailer. This is a win for travelers because it means:
- Simpler booking where one cart is enough to book flights and other extras.
- More flexibility allowing mix-and-match and luggage options.
- Personalized offers where one can customize bundles
- Easier and Faster changes because refunds and modifications are handled directly via the booking system.
The Future of Airline Booking
With some airlines like Riyadh Air taking bold steps to move from legacy reservations to digital retailing, major transformation is coming for airlines. Airlines are now meeting consumer expectations by adopting shopping carts and Amazon-like booking flows.
Soon, NDC will move airlines towards digital retailing that offers flexible options for customers. Airline booking is set to become faster, more transparent, and customizable just like e-commerce platforms. This means that customers will escape the tedious, rigid reservation systems.