KQ Deploys a First-of-Its-Kind Data Transmission Standard in Sub-Saharan Africa

Kenya Airways (KQ) has started deploying its New Distribution Capability (NDC-sourced) content to travel seller customers in Kenya via the Amadeus Travel Platform – a first in Sub-Saharan Africa.

NDC is an International Air Transport Association (IATA)-developed XML-based data transmission standard that aims to modernize how airlines distribute and sell their products, offering airlines greater flexibility and control over their content and distribution channels.

KQ in a statement on Tuesday, April 8, said this follows its decision to adopt Altéa NDC to effectively and consistently distribute and service new content and fares through NDC connectivity across channels, enhancing its retailing capabilities.

The airline stated that the strong synergies between Altéa NDC and the Amadeus Travel Platform will enable faster and smoother implementation of the airline’s NDC offers, reducing time to market and bringing enhanced productivity to travel sellers.

“Amadeus-connected travel sellers will therefore be among the first to gain access to NDC content from one of the most progressive carriers in the region,” read the statement in parts.

Also Read: Kenya Airways Profit Rises 124% to Ksh5.4 Billion

Kenya Airways Deploys New Distribution Capability Content in Sub-Saharan Africa

According to KQ, when fully implemented, travel sellers worldwide will have access to the entire Kenya Airways NDC content offering, allowing agents to create new and exciting travel offers.

Kenya Airways Chief Commercial and Customer Officer, Julius Thairu, noted that the move is a significant milestone for the airline as they continue to innovate and enhance their travel retailing capabilities.

“Amadeus has been at the forefront of driving NDC adoption across the global travel ecosystem and was therefore the natural choice for this step on our distribution journey,” he said.

“We are very happy to be able to offer our full range of NDC content through Amadeus’ leading technology and to its travel sellers’ network.”

Also Read: Project Kifaru: Kenya Airways Comeback Strategy That Ended 11-Year Profit Drought

KQ Becomes 1st Airline in Africa to Use NDC

On his part, Christophe Roux, SVP Airlines, Middle East, Turkey, and Africa at Amadeus, added that Kenya Airways was among the first airlines in Africa to understand the value that NDC technology could offer its customers, and it’s a pleasure to help that retailing ambition come to life.

“We are very proud that Kenya Airways has trusted Amadeus end-to-end to enable its modern retailing strategy,” Christophe said.

“With Kenya Airways’ NDC content live on the Amadeus Travel Platform, the airline will benefit from significant reach throughout the global community of travel sellers, who will have the ability to create the bespoke, personalized offers that today’s travelers expect.”

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