What does NDC mean in corporate travel?

NDC (New Distribution Capability) is an IATA standard that changes how airlines distribute and sell airfares. It replaces legacy systems with a modern, retail-style model that lets airlines share richer, more dynamic offers, such as bundled fares and personalised ancillaries, directly within corporate booking tools like CTM’s Lightning. 

Why is NDC important for corporate travel?

NDC will allow businesses to access:

• dynamic, retail-style airline offers (fare bundles, upgrades, ancillaries)
• exclusive corporate fares unavailable through traditional channels
• improved reporting and reconciliation through integrated systems.

How does CTM deliver NDC content?

CTM integrates NDC content directly into its proprietary Lightning online booking tool. This means travel arrangers and travellers can compare and book NDC and traditional fares side-by-side, manage changes online, and enjoy a consistent, compliant experience backed by CTM’s global servicing and reporting systems. 

What benefits do CTM customers get from NDC?

Customers using CTM’s Lightning tool benefit from: 

• richer content and more competitive fares
• online booking, modification and cancellation across all fare types
• automated credit allocation and reconciliation
• access to premium airline content like Qantas’ NDC marketplace.

Early adopters have achieved up to 9% savings on key domestic routes.

Does NDC make flights cheaper?

In many cases, yes. NDC removes certain distribution fees for airlines and can unlock bundled fare options and exclusive offers that can’t be accessed through traditional channels. Savings depend on the airline, route, and contract, but CTM customers have already seen measurable cost reductions through NDC-enabled bookings. 

Will travellers still earn loyalty points through CTM with NDC fares?

Yes. NDC bookings generally include the same frequent flyer points and status credits as equivalent traditional fares, provided the airline and fare type permit them.  

How does NDC affect travel program management?

NDC enhances visibility and control for travel managers, improves the booking experience for travellers, and strengthens reporting accuracy for finance teams. CTM applies the same travel policy, approval workflows and duty of care measures across all fare types, ensuring compliance remains seamless. 

What happens if my airline or route doesn’t yet support NDC?

Not all airlines are fully NDC-ready yet. CTM’s technology automatically sources the best available fare, whether through NDC, GDS, or direct API connections, so customers always have complete and competitive options, regardless of content source. 

How is CTM helping shape the future of NDC?

CTM continues to collaborate with airlines and technology partners to expand NDC coverage, close servicing gaps, and enhance disruption handling.  

How do I know if my TMC is truly NDC-ready?

A truly NDC-ready TMC can: 

• combine NDC and traditional fares in one platform
• deliver full online servicing (book, modify, cancel)
• provide automated reporting and reconciliation
• continuously evolve with new airlines content and functionality.

CTM was among the first TMCs globally to achieve this capability, helping clients navigate and capitalise on the NDC opportunity. 

What challenges still exist with NDC?

Industry-wide, some gaps remain in post-booking servicing (e.g. involuntary changes, ticket exchanges across channels). CTM actively collaborates with airline partners to resolve these as standards evolve. 

Will NDC affect my travel policy compliance?

No. Lightning applies the same policy and approval workflows across all fare types to ensure compliance, duty of care and cost control.