Singapore Airlines makes NDC connection with Skyscanner

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has announced its first New Distribution Capability (NDC) connection, with travel search site Skyscanner. Through this connection, customers can book SIA flights through the Skyscanner site. NDC is an industry-supported standard introduced by the International Air Transport … Continue reading →

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has announced its first New Distribution Capability (NDC) connection, with travel search site Skyscanner.

Through this connection, customers can book SIA flights through the Skyscanner site.

NDC is an industry-supported standard introduced by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). It aims to create a more agile and efficient distribution system by supplementing the capabilities of third party channels to match those of the airline’s websites.

SIA’s NDC agreement with Skyscanner introduces a more direct way for customers to book flights.

Customers who choose to purchase SIA flights through Skyscanner will now be able to do so directly, instead of having to be referred to the Singapore Airlines website to complete a booking.

SIA recently obtained its Level 3 NDC certification, which covers both ‘offer’ and ‘order’ management, under which an airline takes full control of the way fares are offered to customers as well as the booking, payment and ticketing processes once customers have chosen a fare that they wish to purchase. SIA will develop its NDC capabilities to offer other ancillary services and personalised offers.

“We are pleased to be unveiling our first NDC connection with Skyscanner, to provide more convenience to customers making flight bookings,” said Mr Campbell Wilson, senior vice president, sales and marketing at SIA. “With an NDC Level 3 certification, we will also be seeking out even more connections with travel partners to improve distribution through SIA’s third-party sales channels.”

Hugh Aitken, senior director, strategic partnerships at Skyscanner, added: “We are delighted to have partnered with Singapore Airlines to offer travellers the opportunity to search and book their fares seamlessly through the Skyscanner app and website.

“We believe our powerful direct booking capability is good for customers who can complete their booking with as little friction as possible, and good for airlines, giving our partners like Singapore Airlines the ability to showcase their up-sell options directly to the booking customer with a fully Singapore Airlines branded checkout flow. Our platform is compatible with any NDC-ready provider ensuring we are able to offer our airline and hotel partners industry-leading distribution options.”

Yanik Hoyles, director of IATA’s NDC program, said: “We congratulate Singapore Airlines on the launch of this NDC connection. With this achievement, Singapore Airlines is taking a major step toward transforming airline distribution, bringing more booking options to air travellers in preparation for the new era of airline retailing that NDC enables.”