The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched a website allowing the airline industry to share APIs, or application programming interfaces, code that enables two software programmes to communicate.
The new IATA facility was developed by Rapid, a US-based API hub provider. In the travel industry, APIs are used in services ranging from providing offers to customers to baggage tracking to flight status notifications.
“Combining our understanding of the issues facing the airline industry with Rapid’s expertise of the API and developer ecosystem, this partnership will create a platform to help the industry to innovate toward the goal of delivering a seamless customer experience,” said Muhammad Albakri, IATA senior vice president, financial settlement and distribution services.
This partnership will empower developers across IATA, airlines and new travel startups to create new digital experiences that enhance and streamline travel experience. Access to airline data and API through a streamlined, unified platform will accelerate digital transformation and innovation across the travel industry,” said Iddo Gino, founder and chief executive of Rapid.