#USA #Arlington #travel technology #Airlines Reporting Corp #Airline Retailing

ARC's Innovative Leap in Airline Retailing

In a significant advancement for the air travel industry, the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) has launched the first-ever orders-based reporting and settlement system. This innovative solution is designed to empower airlines, travel agencies, and their partners to transition beyond the traditional ticket-based model towards a more dynamic and user-centric orders-based framework. The shift marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of airline retailing, promising improved efficiency and customer satisfaction.

The Shift Toward Orders-Based Systems

Previously, the airline industry primarily relied on ticket-centered reporting and settlement methods, which often limited flexibility for airlines and travel agencies. However, with ARC's new system, the process now focuses on orders as a fundamental unit of transactions. Sarah Boyd, the principal of airline retailing solutions at ARC, emphasized the importance of this change, stating, "Orders represent a fundamental shift in how ARC and our partners conduct business. Our system ensures that customers are prepared for the next generation of airline retailing and distribution. Here, an order is the single source of truth for all trip elements."

Features of the New System

The first version of ARC's orders system introduces seamless reporting and settlement of orders executed with cash payments. It capitalizes on real-time data exchanges, which will facilitate enhanced reporting and analytics. This initiative is a critical component of ARC's broader strategy aimed at modernizing airline retailing and simplifying both servicing and back-end processes across distribution channels.

By adopting this approach, airlines and travel agencies can create a more cohesive and customer-centric travel experience. The emphasis on orders allows users to access comprehensive information all in one place, making transaction management more intuitive and efficient.

Expert Collaboration and Industry Standards

Developed in close collaboration with advisory councils comprising airlines, travel agencies, and technology providers, ARC's new orders system adheres to industry standards. This collective approach is aimed at ensuring that all stakeholders, regardless of their technological capabilities, can effectively utilize the system.

George Bryan, the new Head of Orders at ARC, underscored the collaborative nature of this launch: "Collaboration is paramount to ensure the transition to orders-based reporting and settlement is deliberate, scalable, and ensures all parties have access to the data they need to run their businesses."

Forward-Looking Initiatives

The orders-based system is set to support various transaction types moving forward, including those from global distribution systems (GDS) utilizing EDIFACT as well as the New Distribution Capability (NDC). This flexibility is geared towards accommodating the diverse needs of airlines and agencies in a constantly evolving market landscape.

Conclusion

Very notably, ARC has established itself as a vital player in redefining the way travel data is processed and utilized in the air travel industry. The comprehensive dataset of over 24 billion passenger flights indicates the scale at which ARC operates, further highlighting its capability to support a thriving airline retailing ecosystem.

For airlines and travel agencies eager to leverage this new system, more information can be found on the ARC's dedicated orders webpage. As this transition unfolds, the focus will be on embracing the future of airline retailing and enhancing the overall consumer experience in air travel.

ARC continues to exemplify leadership in the aviation sector, offering robust solutions that cater to the growing demands of airline distribution and retailing.