According to AFRAA, the key insights from the study show that distribution cost reduction is the top priority for all surveyed airlines, with high GDS and intermediary fees cited as unsustainable. It also uncovered that NDC adoption is just beginning, as nearly half of airlines have no NDC capabilities, but a significant set of airlines are actively planning or implementing NDC.
AFRAA Secretary General, Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé, commented: “The insights from this whitepaper are vital as African airlines navigate a new era of distribution. By embracing digital transformation and modern retailing strategies, our members can reduce costs, improve agility, and better serve the African market. AFRAA is committed to collaborating with all relevant stakeholders – including technology providers, travel agents, and payment innovators – to support the enhancement of the distribution ecosystem in Africa to improve the traveler experience and ultimately drive sustainable growth for African airlines.”
“Modern airline retailing is about more than technology. It’s about control, agility, and delivering value to both customers and partners,” said Giuseppe Candela, VP of Global Sales, TPConnects Technologies. “The findings from our joint survey and whitepaper with AFRAA provide a clear snapshot of where African airlines stand and where they are headed. Airlines across the continent are eager to take greater control of their distribution, offers, and customer relationships.”