Mindtree, a technology services company, has announced the launch of the Lufthansa Open API direct booking functionality. This means that authorised developers within the broader ecosystem can now integrate the sale of airline tickets into their own websites and applications
Mindtree supported the Lufthansa Group and Lufthansa Innovation Hub with the technical implementation and conception within the Lufthansa Open API interface, to help create ‘context-based travel offers’.
“Lufthansa has opened up additional revenue channels”
Nalin Vij, SVP and global head – Travel, Transportation and Hospitality Group, Mindtree told us exclusively that: “The booking API will enable developers to integrate their applications with Lufthansa’s data, uniting all channels and preventing customers from having to needlessly switch applications when building their travel plans.
“By opening up its business further with APIs, we’re delighted to share that Lufthansa has opened up additional revenue channels and methods of travel planning that will deliver a seamless, personalised experience for travellers across the globe.”
Reinhard Lanegger, senior venture development manager, Lufthansa Innovation Hub, and project lead, Lufthansa Open API, said: “IATA statistics show that Lufthansa is within the exclusive circle of only 4% of IATA members providing an Open API.
“Strengthens Lufthansa Group’s direct distribution strategy”
Lanegger continued: “The booking capability is an incredible accomplishment by the whole team from within Lufthansa Group IT, Mindtree and the Lufthansa Innovation Hub. Opening such a core feature to be used by early stage startups and ventures is a great opportunity and strengthens Lufthansa Group’s direct distribution strategy. Together, we have taken another huge step forward in our Open API journey.”
Many travel services use the API interface for functions such as timetabling, flight status and seat maps. By providing access to the airline’s booking functionality, external programmers can now leverage flight search, selection, and ticketing data via developer.lufthansa.com to include in their own services and provide an elevated customer experience.
Early stage startups, ventures, or those new to air travel, can now leverage the booking functionality for Lufthansa flights from the UK. Lufthansa plans to gradually expand this functionality into more markets.