Qantas has announced the integration of interline flights with American Airlines into its dedicated New Distribution Capability (NDC) platform. This significant development allows travel management companies (TMCs) and travel agencies to access a wider choice of destinations via the Qantas Distribution Platform, which was launched in March. American Airlines is the first interline partner to be featured on the platform.
While the content available is currently limited—ancillary services are only bookable for segments operated or managed by Qantas—the integration represents a step forward in expanding the platform’s offerings. When shopping for travel options via the platform, Qantas-operated and marketed flights will be prioritized over interline options, though interline flights may be included as additional journey choices.
Interline flights refer to travel arrangements where two or more airlines collaborate to transport passengers on a single journey under one booking. This arrangement allows passengers to travel seamlessly across multiple airlines with coordinated schedules, baggage handling, and ticketing. For example, a passenger might fly from Sydney to Los Angeles on Qantas and then from Los Angeles to New York on American Airlines, all under one ticket.
The New Distribution Capability (NDC) is a travel industry-supported program launched by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). It aims to enhance the capability of communications between airlines and travel agents by enabling the distribution of rich content and personalized offers through various sales channels. NDC leverages modern XML technology to facilitate this enhanced communication, moving away from the traditional and more restrictive distribution methods.
Integrating interline flights into an NDC platform means that airlines, such as Qantas and American Airlines, can offer combined flight itineraries on a single booking platform. This integration provides several benefits: Qantas has confirmed on its website that TMCs can earn base commission on interline flights booked through the portal. Additionally, members of Qantas’ frequent flyer loyalty program will be able to earn points on flights booked with eligible oneworld and partner airlines, further enhancing the value proposition for frequent travelers.
The Qantas NDC platform is currently available in 60 countries, including 27 in Europe. Notable European countries where the platform is operational include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and the UK. Qantas plans to further expand the network of destinations, flight options, and carriers available on the platform, aiming to include more interline partners in the near future.
This integration of American Airlines interline flights into the Qantas NDC portal underscores the airline’s commitment to providing comprehensive and flexible travel solutions for its partners and customers. By enhancing the range of available destinations and offering seamless booking experiences, Qantas is positioning itself as a leader in the evolving landscape of airline distribution. Travel management companies and agencies now have the opportunity to leverage the expanded capabilities of the Qantas Distribution Platform to better serve their clients, ensuring access to a broad spectrum of global travel options and earning opportunities.
Integrating interline flights into the New Distribution Capability (NDC) platform indeed boosts air travel in several significant ways. Here’s how this integration enhances the air travel experience and increases passenger numbers: Integrating interline flights into the NDC platform significantly boosts air travel by enhancing connectivity, improving the booking experience, increasing passenger confidence, and offering personalized travel options. These improvements not only make air travel more attractive to passengers but also drive economic benefits for airlines and the regions they serve. By providing a seamless and efficient travel experience, this integration encourages more people to fly, ultimately contributing to the growth and development of the global aviation industry.
Qantas and American Airlines are strengthening their partnership to enhance travel connectivity between America and Australia. Through their collaborative efforts, the airlines are providing passengers with more flight options, seamless travel experiences, and greater convenience. This partnership includes integrating American Airlines’ interline flights into Qantas’ New Distribution Capability (NDC) platform, which allows travel management companies and agencies to access a broader range of destinations. Qantas has prioritized the inclusion of American Airlines as its first interline partner on the platform, highlighting the strategic importance of this alliance. This integration enables passengers to book flights with both airlines through a single platform, offering a streamlined process and improved travel planning. Travelers can now enjoy expanded flight schedules, optimized routes, and enhanced earning opportunities through loyalty programs.
By boosting travel between America and Australia, Qantas and American Airlines are not only catering to the increasing demand for transpacific flights but also fostering economic ties and tourism growth between the two regions. This partnership is a testament to both airlines’ commitment to delivering superior service and connectivity, reinforcing their positions as leading carriers in the global aviation market. The strengthened alliance underscores the ongoing efforts of Qantas and American Airlines to offer innovative travel solutions and enhance the overall passenger experience.
