Qantas Airlines is stepping up its retailing game with the introduction of a new distribution platform intended to give travel agents access to more detailed information about product features available with each booking. The platform will also provide information on frequent flyer status at the point of sale.

Farelogix helped Qantas with the development of the new platform, which takes advantage of IATA’s New Distribution Capability (NDC) for data exchange. The Qantas Distribution Platform (QDP) was certified to NDC Level 3, IATA’s highest certification tier.

Qantas chief customer officer Vanessa Hudson explains how the new distribution platform fits into the airline’s overall retailing strategy.

“The Qantas Distribution Platform will enable our trade partners to provide customers with a more personalised experience, beyond what traditional technology has been able to deliver.

“There have never been more ways for a customer to research and book their travel. We want to make the booking experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible, no matter their booking channel preference. This new platform will help us provide that to our trade partners and customers, modernising the way Qantas delivers content.”

Travelport, Serko and CTM are early adopters of the QDP and Qantas is working with other GDS and agency partners on their adoption of the platform.

The QDP is enhanced with Travelport’s Rich Content and Branding merchandising solution, which lets over 65,000 of Travelport-connected travel agencies around the world access to images of cabin products and meals available and also lets them book ancillary options like extra legroom seating. Travelport has also received Level 3 NDC certification from IATA.

Stephen Shurrock, Travelport’s chief commercial officer, says:

“This agreement is testament to Qantas’ commendable forward-looking vision. Travelport is proud to be a global pioneer of NDC connections with the airline. Whether it’s the deployment of Rich Content and Branding or our new NDC capabilities, Travelport is uniquely equipped to support Qantas in optimizing content distribution globally.”