In a significant development for the travel industry, China Eastern Airlines has inked a landmark agreement with Amadeus, a leading travel technology company. This deal marks a major milestone for both parties, paving the way for a more innovative and personalized travel experience for customers.
Amadeus and China Eastern Airlines: A Strategic Partnership
The agreement positions China Eastern Airlines as the first carrier in mainland China to embrace international NDC (New Distribution Capability) distribution with Amadeus. This collaboration strengthens the existing ties between the two companies and signifies Amadeus’ expanding presence within the crucial Chinese airline market.
What is NDC?
NDC is a transformative technology standard that streamlines communication between airlines and travel sellers. Unlike the traditional model, NDC empowers airlines with greater control over how their products and services are presented to travel agents and ultimately, to travelers.
Benefits for Travelers and Travel Sellers
The adoption of NDC by China Eastern Airlines offers a multitude of advantages for both travelers and travel sellers:
Enhanced Choice and Personalization: Travelers can expect a wider range of fare options and personalized offers tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
Richer Content for Travel Sellers: Travel sellers will have access to a richer data stream from China Eastern Airlines, including details on branded fares, ancillary products, and other unique offerings. This enables them to provide a more comprehensive and informative service to their clients.
Improved Customer Service: With access to a wider array of choices, travel sellers can cater to the diverse needs of travelers more effectively, leading to a more satisfying customer experience.
Increased Traveler Confidence: The transparency and flexibility offered by NDC empower travelers to make informed booking decisions, fostering greater confidence in their travel choices.
Expanding China’s Domestic Airline Content:
Travel sellers worldwide will also benefit from increased access to China Eastern’s extensive domestic network. This expanded reach opens doors for travelers seeking seamless connections within China, facilitating multi-destination itineraries.
China Eastern Airlines: A Commitment to Innovation
By embracing NDC, China Eastern Airlines demonstrates its commitment to innovation and a focus on enhancing the travel experience for its global customer base. Fu Jian, Vice President of Commercial Development at China Eastern Airlines, emphasizes the significance of this deal:
“We are committed to providing our customers worldwide with more choice and personalization when booking travel with us. NDC is a key enabler for achieving this goal. This initiative is also crucial for accelerating the recovery of international traffic and expanding our overseas sales channels.”
A Strong Partnership for Global Reach:
China Eastern recognizes Amadeus as a valuable partner in its quest to expand its global footprint. The airline values Amadeus’ position as a leader in travel technology and looks forward to leveraging this partnership to reach new markets worldwide.
About China Eastern Airlines
China Eastern Airlines, headquartered in Shanghai, is one of China’s three major state-owned airlines. As a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, it boasts a vast network of international and domestic flights operating from key hubs in Shanghai, Beijing, and other regional centers within China.
