Amadeus Reports Early Success Tackling NDC Look-to-Book Surge

Article Summary:
Amadeus, a leading European aviation technology company, has introduced a new search traffic filtering service aimed at assisting airlines in managing the surge in search volumes. This transition from the traditional EDIFACT distribution platform to the New Distribution Capability (NDC) allows airlines to exert greater control over the consumer offerings. However, the increased use of mobile devices and the impact of AI have led to heightened strain on airline IT systems. Airlines are striving to provide real-time pricing, which is challenging due to the overwhelming number of search queries, most of which are unlikely to convert. To address this, Amadeus’ Advanced Airline Profile utilizes machine learning to filter out irrelevant or inactionable traffic, helping airlines manage traffic at scale. This innovation is particularly beneficial for airlines that have scaled back their NDC ambitions or imposed limits on travel agency partners through ‘look-to-book’ restrictions.

Key Points:

1. Amadeus has launched a new search traffic filtering service to help airlines cope with the increasing volume of search queries.
2. The shift from EDIFACT to NDC enables airlines to have more control over the consumer offerings.
3. The rise in mobile usage and AI impact is straining airline IT systems.
4. Airlines are aiming for real-time pricing, but the high volume of search queries is making this challenging.
5. Amadeus’ Advanced Airline Profile uses machine learning to filter out irrelevant traffic, aiding airlines in managing search traffic at scale.
6. The service is designed to support airlines that have reduced their NDC ambitions or implemented ‘look-to-book’ limits on travel agency partners.

Actionable Takeaways:

• Adopt Advanced Airline Profile: Airlines should consider implementing Amadeus’ Advanced Airline Profile to manage search traffic more effectively. This machine learning-driven tool can filter out irrelevant traffic, helping airlines maintain control over their offerings and optimize their IT systems. This is particularly relevant for airlines looking to scale back their NDC ambitions or impose ‘look-to-book’ limits on travel agency partners.
• Invest in IT Infrastructure: Given the strain on airline IT systems due to increased search volumes, airlines should invest in robust IT infrastructure. This investment will ensure that airlines can handle the surge in search queries without compromising on real-time pricing and customer experience.
• Leverage Machine Learning: The use of machine learning in filtering search traffic is a significant innovation. Airlines should explore and adopt similar technologies to enhance their search capabilities, improve customer experience, and manage IT strain more efficiently.

Contextual Insights:
The introduction of Amadeus’ Advanced Airline Profile aligns with the broader trend of airlines leveraging technology to manage the complexities of modern travel. The shift from traditional EDIFACT distribution to NDC reflects the industry’s move towards more consumer-centric and flexible booking systems. This trend is supported by the increasing use of mobile devices and AI, which are reshaping how airlines interact with consumers. The challenge of managing high search volumes while providing real-time pricing highlights the need for advanced solutions like machine learning. As the travel industry continues to evolve, innovations that enhance operational efficiency and customer experience will be crucial for airlines to stay competitive. The adoption of such technologies not only addresses current challenges but also positions airlines to adapt to future trends and technological advancements in the travel sector.

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