TripActions has established an NDC-enabled direct connection to the Lufthansa Group and aims to have content available to all platform users by the end of this month.
At the onset, the connection will be "starting with the basics," TripActions VP of booking experience and supplier strategy Daniel Finkel said. In particular, it will enable TripActions users to avoid Lufthansa's 16-euro distribution cost charge, which they currently have to pay, since TripActions currently gets Lufthansa content via global distribution systems. "We did have the GDS surcharge, much like everyone else, so this does allow us to be more price competitive."
In addition, the connection will give TripActions access to all Lufthansa Group content, including Economy Light Fares that are not available in GDSs. The initial stage also will bring the ability to buy some ancillaries, such as premium seats, Finkel said.
Ultimately, TripActions aims to create dynamic, bundled offers through the connection for a "robust, enhanced, enriched experience," he added. The TripActions platform is based on personalization driven by machine learning to tailor booking options for each traveler.
TripActions did its first NDC implementation earlier this year with United Airlines, making content like Wi-Fi, premium seating and United Club access available through TripActions either as individual items or part of bundled fares. The company reported "massive traction and positive traveler and travel manager response" from that implementation.
TripActions' commercial model, which charges a flat service fee per trip, has not changed since offering NDC content. Finkel emphasized NDC bookings will not incur a higher per-trip fee.
"We have a democratic stance on content in general. There are others who charge differentiated prices based on the source of the content, but that is not our philosophy at all. We provide a platform that gives travelers the best available content, and we do not charge anything extra."