Emirates and Expedia Group partner to offer easier flight bookings

Berlin: Dubai-based Emirates announced Wednesday, on the sidelines of ITB Berlin, that it is strengthening its partnership with Expedia Group. Now, travellers booking an Emirates flight on Expedia’s websites will have direct access to the airline’s ticket options, services, and add-ons rather than visiting multiple websites.

Emirates said it has fully integrated its New Distribution Capability (NDC) with Expedia. NDC is a technology standard created by the airline industry that allows airlines to sell tickets and extra services (like seat selection and baggage) more easily through travel websites. This means a smoother booking experience with more choices and flexibility for travellers.  Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, flies to more than 140 cities, and Expedia Group’s three flagship consumer brands are Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo.

Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer of Emirates Airlines, Adnan Kazim, said, “Looking ahead, our enhanced collaboration will provide travellers with seamless access to Emirates' NDC content while expanding booking possibilities across all elements of their journey."

The complete integration will enable Expedia Group to offer Emirates’ NDC fares, products and ancillary services, including extra baggage and seat selection, along with other improved features and flexibility in their booking journeys – the airline explained.

Meanwhile, Greg Schulze, Chief Commercial Officer, Expedia Group, said, “Our expanded partnership with Emirates marks a significant step in elevating the travel experience. This collaboration gives our global travellers more customised options and easier bookings, allowing them to create unique trips that suit their needs. Ultimately, it’s about making every journey a lasting memory for our travellers.”

Emirates and Expedia Group are also seeking ways to offer better travel rewards for customers through loyalty programs. The companies said they plan to use market data to improve deals and create smarter marketing campaigns.

The partnership will also make booking flight and hotel packages easier in one go. The tailor-made air and hotel packages will allow travellers to complement their Emirates flights with stays at thousands of hotels available on Expedia Group’s brands.

NDC Integration is not a new concept. Other major airlines, including Lufthansa, British Airways, and American Airlines, have already adopted NDC with online travel agencies and booking platforms, allowing them to offer personalised fares and upsell services directly.

Moreover, Emirates already provides flight-and-hotel booking options through the airline’s own websites or other travel platforms. However, Expedia is expected to expand its reach.