What a GDS does
Airlines publish their schedules, fares and seat availability into the GDS. Agencies connect to the GDS once — through a terminal or an API — and can then search and book across hundreds of airlines, issue tickets, and manage changes. The GDS also carries hotel and car inventory, though most leisure hotel volume now flows through bed banks and direct APIs instead.
GDS versus direct and NDC connections
Airlines increasingly sell through NDC — IATA’s XML standard that lets them offer richer content (seat selection, bundles, dynamic offers) through direct API connections or through the GDSs’ own NDC channels. A modern booking platform usually combines GDS content with NDC and low-cost-carrier APIs.
Example
A corporate travel company searches London–New York on a GDS and sees fares from several airlines in one display, then issues the ticket without visiting any airline’s website.
How TraveleXe handles GDS
TraveleXe integrates flight, hotel, transfer and GDS suppliers into one booking platform through its travel API integration services.
Explore APINex and travel API integrationFrequently asked questions
Is a GDS needed for hotels?
Not usually. Hotels can be booked through a GDS, but most travel businesses get better hotel rates and coverage through bed banks and direct supplier APIs.
Last reviewed 25 October 2026 by the TraveleXe product team.