Something to say about IATA and NDC

On August 7th in the form of a press release IATA Welcomed the US Dept. of Transportation's Final Approval of Resolution 787

ACTA is pleased to say that we to are happy with the way the DOT decision approving Resolution  787 was made subject to conditions IATA had agreed with Open Allies.

In particular we are pleased with the DOT’s emphasis that its  approval of Resolution 787 was limited to the creation of an XML communication standard that will permit airlines individually to "enhance distribution of their products”.

ACTA also welcomed the DOT’s clear statement that, "nothing in its tentative decision or final order should be interpreted as reflecting any prejudgment or determination on their part regarding the NDC as a business model."

We must also clearly state  that the DOT decision only modifies Resolution 787  for activities subject to United States jurisdiction and does not apply elsewhere.  We have to remain concerned that for the the carriers outside of the "USA" that the text of Resolution 787 remains unchanged. It still states that travel agencies can be required by a carrier to provide the traveler’s personal details in order to get a price quote. 

IATA has been clear to state its “view” that the conditions imposed by DOT are consistent with what Resolution 787 is supposed to mean, but since the actual verbiage of 787 does not support the conditions on its face, ACTA will remain on edge that IATA will at some point change its view and enforce the Resolution as it is actually written outside the US.

ACTA feels the solution to this is an easy one and well within IATA’s control.  IATA can have the Resolution amended by mail vote of IATA carriers at any time on 21 days notice and make the Resolution subject to the five conditions worldwide to tighten up the language related to privacy rights, competition, and travel agencies located outside the US.

Sincerely.