Distribution
GDS vs NDC vs LCC Direct Connect
Compare airline distribution models before building a flight platform
By Project OTA | 26 Jun, 2026 | 6 min read
GDS, NDC and LCC direct connects solve different airline distribution problems. The best OTA architecture often supports all three.
The role of GDS
GDS connections are valuable for broad coverage, established agency workflows, ticketing processes and corporate travel needs. They remain important for agencies that need reliability and structured post-booking service.
The challenge is commercial and technical complexity. Agencies need the right contracts, PCC setup and software to manage rules and ticketing.
The role of NDC and LCC connections
NDC helps airlines expose richer offers, branded fares and ancillaries. LCC direct connects can improve access to low-cost carrier inventory and add-on products.
Both models can create better retailing opportunities, but servicing can vary. The OTA must clearly track supplier source and after-sales capabilities.
How to combine them
The best architecture uses a normalized offer model with supplier-specific booking handlers. Customers see one clean shopping experience, while the backend routes each booking through the correct supplier workflow.
This approach lets the OTA expand content without rebuilding checkout every time a new supplier is added.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will NDC replace GDS?
NDC is growing, but many agencies still need GDS workflows. In practice, OTAs often use both depending on route, airline and servicing needs.
Are LCC direct connects worth it?
They can be worth it when low-cost carrier demand is high and the agency can manage ancillaries, payments and servicing rules.
Key Takeaways
- GDS provides broad distribution and mature agency workflows.
- NDC can provide richer airline offers and ancillaries.
- LCC direct connects can improve low-cost carrier access and pricing.
Project OTA designs supplier architecture that lets agencies combine GDS, NDC, LCC and aggregator content cleanly.
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