American Airlines Responds to ASTA’s Criticism of NDC Ticket Distribution
American Airlines has strongly refuted the American Society of Travel Advisors’ (ASTA) complaint against its ticket distribution through the New Distribution Capability (NDC). The airline dubbed the complaint “a frivolous compilation of rhetoric and unsupported allegations.”
In response to ASTA’s claim that its actions negatively impact competition and consumers, American Airlines suggested that the complaint is an attempt by some travel agencies to hinder innovation due to their reluctance to invest in new technologies.
Background
ASTA filed a complaint with the Department of Transport (DOT) in July, alleging that American Airlines’ shift to NDC for ticket distribution led to higher airfares and hindered travel agents’ ability to perform their jobs. American Airlines’ response pointed out that NDC is more transparent than the older EDIFACT technologies and assured that all fares are viewable and comparable in both EDIFACT and NDC channels.
More Options for Consumers
The airline emphasized the benefits of NDC-enabled transparency for consumers, highlighting customer satisfaction with modern technologies. American Airlines also stated that there is no evidence that its NDC plans have led to higher prices or fewer options for consumers.
Lagging in Technology Adoption
American Airlines argued that its changes to ticket distribution have prompted other U.S. airlines, such as United Airlines, to adopt NDC-based technologies. The airline accused U.S.-based travel agencies of lagging behind in NDC adoption, to the detriment of American consumers.
As the DOT reviews the response, the future of airline distribution and travel agency operations hangs in the balance. Skift has reached out to ASTA for further comment.
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