Business-ready NDC that’s proven to work

Practical, compliant, future-ready. FCM Travel makes new distribution capability (NDC) work for corporate travel management programmes by staying focused on our corporate clients' needs, the customer experience and service excellence.

Here at FCM, we’ve always believed in modern air retailing – we were one of the first global travel management companies to achieve IATA (International Air Transport Association) NDC certification. Our clients can trust that we can integrate content seamlessly as we continue to work with airlines and technology providers.

What is NDC?

New distribution capability (NDC) is a modern way for airlines to distribute airfares to travel agencies. Every airline has its own NDC implementation strategy and priorities. As a travel seller, FCM strives to clearly display these airfares alongside inventory from all our other sources, and have the ability to amend, change and service these bookings the same way as any other flight booking.

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How our approach integrates content smoothly

Customer-first and consultative

Whether you consider yourself an NDC pro or novice, we never want you to feel alone in your journey. We'll guide you through the complexities so you can make the best decisions for your travel programme. All new distribution capability content is validated before roll-out so we know it fulfils your needs.

Strong partnerships building on expertise

After years of using NDC, you can trust that we understand air distribution inside and out. Alongside our long-standing relationships with airlines, global distribution systems (GDS) and aggregators, our team are accustomed to navigating airline industry shifts and optimising air inventory.

Focus on service and relevance

NDC doesn't have to be just available, it needs to work with the booking and change processes that comes with business travel planning, through relevant channels and online booking tools. That's why it's not enough to plug in an airline's NDC solution, we prioritise airfare content that aligns with booking processes, travel policies and technology. It's only after rigorous testing and pilots that we expand access.

Keeping innovation at the forefront

Keep your NDC strategy future-proof with the confidence we can leverage technology to enhance corporate travel. Through partnering with the best technology partners, we're delivering a robust and scalable solution for business travel.

Learn more about how we deploy NDC

Is NDC right for your travel programme?

These are the main implications to be considered when introducing NDC content into your business travel programme.

Programme adjustments

Policies or workflows may need to change, especially to confirm if any fare inclusions align. Paid ancillaries – you're allowed to expense it – what they do and don't allow NDC bookings also still need to display in your reporting, duty of care systems, and spend tracking. If they don’t, you’re lacking full visibility.

Pricing vs experience

Yes, you may see lower fares. But there’s a trade-off - servicing complexity and response times could be affected. NDC fares can be harder to change. Your travel consultant might have to work differently, possibly more manually, to service an NDC booking.

Availability and compatibility

Business travel works differently to leisure. Airlines may not be ready to meet your expectations. Your complex needs Also, your online booking tool (OBT) might not show all NDC content yet. Visibility and usability can vary between platforms.

Our NDC portfolio

FCM Travel is working with multiple airlines & global technology partners to launch NDC content. Note that availability and NDC connections depends on several factors such as whether an airline restricts/distribute content in a particular region or country, whether your online booking tool can support and display content, and the types of fares, ancillary services and inclusions available.

“Modern retailing should be practical, reliable, and aligned to your business needs. That’s why at FCM, every NDC integration is thoughtfully tested and tailored, so you can adopt new content confidently and future-proof your travel programme.”

Marcus Eklund, Global Managing Director, FCM Travel

“NDC should never come at the cost of security or service quality. That’s why only content that passes rigorous testing for accuracy, data security, and compliance is made available ensuring it integrates seamlessly into your workflows and protects both your business and your travellers.”

Daniella Pittis, Group Chief Security Officer and EGM Enterprise Technology Services

“Reliable NDC content doesn’t happen by accident. Through real-world pilots with global airlines and technology partners, NDC solutions are carefully tested and proven to integrate smoothly with booking systems, giving your travel programme the consistency and service quality it needs.”

John Morhous, Chief Experience Officer, Flight Centre Travel Group

Have questions on new distribution capability or wider airline distribution?

Speak to an expert today to learn how we can make NDC work for your business travel programme.

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Frequently asked questions on New Distribution Capability

Why does New Distribution Capability matter?

When it was first launched in the early 2010s by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), New Distribution Capability drummed up a lot of excitement in the airline industry. This was the game-changing next step for airline distribution and travel agents, and it promised an easier way to sell ancillary services such as seat upgrades, priority boarding. NDC capabilities promised richer content, more dynamic pricing opportunities, personalised offers tailored to customer preferences and a break away from legacy systems. However, NDC adoption has been slower than anticipated. Initially, travel agents, travel managers, and flight resellers were not involved in the discussions, so the NDC initiatives that were underway did not align with service and business processes. And while NDC was meant to bring standardisation to the way airlines distribute fares, NDC strategies vary per airline. More industry stakeholders have since been involved in New Distribution Capability discussions, meaning it is working better for travel management
Why is New Distribution Capability different for corporate travel vs leisure travel?

It's easier to sell different airfares in the leisure travel market. When booking a trip, holidaymakers can choose whatever airline they like and add on as many additional services as they want, either through online travel agencies or a travel agent store. For corporate travel, the customer experience is different. The direct communication between an airline and business traveller also has to factor in a travel management company's services and likely a travel risk provider. Travel programmes have reporting capabilities and have more existing systems to consider. This complexity means that NDC adoption is not as easy.
How many airlines are using New Distribution Capability?

Airlines are at different stages in their NDC journey. Additionally, if a large airline, say British Airways or American Airlines, announces a change in its flight content, that will be prioritised over smaller airlines who may not be so far ahead in their plans. Travel managers should speak to their corporate travel management company account manager or airline representative to discover where they are in their strategy to implement NDC.

Case study: Consolidation