Delta’s recent distribution agreements with the major GDSs have brought a significant change in the way travel advisors access content. These agreements ensure that travel advisors have access to full content without facing any surcharge for using legacy systems. The completion of multi-year agreements with two of the three GDSs highlights Delta’s commitment to providing a seamless booking experience for travel advisors.
According to senior vice president of global sales Bob Somers, the new agreements include a full-content commitment across all channels. This not only benefits travel advisors but also sets the stage for NDC and further display enhancements on GDS-owned platforms. The emphasis on full-content commitment demonstrates Delta’s dedication to offering a wide range of options to travel advisors without any limitations.
Maintaining its value-based approach to compensating GDSs, Delta has ensured that payments are scaled based on the value of each booking. By incentivizing higher-revenue bookings, Delta encourages GDSs to invest in merchandising platform improvements. This includes enhancements to legacy displays and the development of NDC platforms, ultimately enhancing the overall booking experience for travel advisors.
During the Delta Business Showcase, managing director of sales technology and global sales support Sara Reid provided insights into Delta’s NDC development. The carrier aims to have a basic selling solution connected with key technology partners by the end of the year. Testing of a basic NDC selling and servicing solution with select agency partners is scheduled to commence next year, allowing agencies to gradually adopt Delta’s NDC solution at their own pace.
To support agencies interested in adopting Delta’s NDC solution, the airline has created an NDC consulting team. This team offers personalized guidance and education to help agencies navigate the transition smoothly. As Reid emphasized, agencies have the flexibility to choose when they are ready to begin using Delta’s NDC solution or continue using legacy GDS systems.
Delta’s new distribution agreements mark a significant milestone in providing enhanced access to full content for travel advisors. With a focus on value-based compensation, NDC development, and personalized support for agencies, Delta is paving the way for a seamless booking experience. Travel advisors can look forward to greater flexibility and options when booking Delta flights, thanks to these groundbreaking agreements.