African aviation distribution divide grows as NDC adoption accelerates
A growing divide is reshaping Africa’s aviation sector as leading markets adopt New Distribution Capability (NDC) technology to modernise how airlines sell products and services. South Africa, Kenya and Ethiopia are emerging as frontrunners, using NDC not simply as a technology upgrade but as a broader commercial strategy to strengthen distribution, improve direct sales and enhance competitiveness. Kenya Airways recently became the first Sub-Saharan African airline to distribute NDC content through the Amadeus Travel Platform, while Ethiopian Airlines continues expanding its programme through global technology partnerships.
The shift is expected to have significant implications for airlines, travel agencies and distribution platforms across the continent. Agencies connected to NDC-enabled carriers gain access to richer content, dynamic pricing and ancillary products that may not be available through traditional systems. Industry observers warn that slower adoption could leave some markets and businesses at a competitive disadvantage as modern distribution increasingly becomes the industry standard across global aviation.
Source: Travel News Africa