Accelya, Sabre, Amex GBT Launch NDC FastTrack Program
Airline technology provider Accelya has partnered with Sabre and American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) to launch NDC FastTrack, a new initiative designed to speed up adoption of the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) New Distribution Capability (NDC) standard.
The NDC FastTrack program offers travel sellers, tech providers, and corporate buyers tools to accelerate deployment, including coordinated roadmaps, technical support, buyer engagement through the Business Travel Innovation Group (BIG), and training materials. The goal is to close functionality gaps and improve delivery transparency across the airline distribution ecosystem.
Accelya reports a 146% year-over-year growth in NDC volumes in corporate travel during 2024, citing momentum across the industry. “NDC is growing fast, bringing real benefits to airlines, travel sellers and the broader ecosystem,” said Accelya CEO Sam Gilliland. “NDC FastTrack will help the travel ecosystem modernize retailing faster and better.”
Sabre’s Kathy Morgan emphasized the urgency: “Now it’s time for speed and growth, cementing the shift toward smarter, more personalized retailing experiences for travel agencies and buyers worldwide.”
Amex GBT, a major corporate travel player, said the partnership aims to deliver richer content and capabilities that go beyond basic NDC functionalities.
While NDC was introduced over a decade ago, widespread adoption has been slow due to fragmented implementations and differing airline strategies. Accelya clarified that FastTrack is not a commercial venture but a collaborative effort to promote airline retail modernization.
The initiative is open by invitation to additional travel retailers and technology providers.
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