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In an era where travel technology is reshaping how we book and dream, Saudi Arabia’s trailblazing newcomer, Riyadh Air, is firmly planting its digital wings into the future. In a move sure to send ripples through global distribution channels, it has partnered with airline retailing specialist TPConnects Technologies to bring its NDC content to travel sellers worldwide.

It’s not just a handshake—it’s a bold stride into the modern age of airline commerce, and all eyes are on Riyadh Air as it readies for take-off with a native digital-first approach. There is no minor airline piping up in the back row. Backed by the Kingdom’s vision to become a global aviation powerhouse, Riyadh Air is embracing IATA’s New Distribution Capability (NDC) with a gusto rarely seen in carriers so fresh to the skies.

And the technology fuelling this charge? The Iris platform is a powerful aggregator developed by Dubai-based TPConnects, renowned for helping airlines and travel agencies shed the dusty old EDIFACT codes of yesteryear in favour of real-time, personalised shopping.

“Riyadh Air is committed to redefining air travel, and our approach to offer and order management is a key part of that vision,” said Vincent Coste, the airline’s polished Chief Commercial Officer. “By working with TPConnects and utilizing the Iris platform, we’re expanding our reach while ensuring travel sellers can provide customers with truly personalised and dynamic travel experiences.”

In layman’s terms? Better fares, more innovative options, and none of the clunky booking systems that leave both agents and travellers gasping for air.

✈️ What’s Changing?

With the integration now live, travel sellers using Iris will gain seamless access to:

All of Riyadh Air’s fare families and ancillaries (yes, even that swanky seat selection)
Dynamic offers with real-time pricing (goodbye static fare charts)
Integrated booking and servicing tools without jumping through flaming hoops

This isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a full-blown renovation of the travel retail shopfront. And there’s not a paper ticket in sight.

🚀 TPConnects: Quietly Powering the Distribution Future

Let’s not forget the quiet achievers behind the scenes. TPConnects, now synonymous with modern airline retailing, has made waves as one of the few aggregators that truly “gets it”. By enabling access to LCCs, EDIFACT airlines and full NDC integration, they’ve turned Iris into a magic wand for travel agents.

“We are thrilled to be working with Riyadh Air on this exciting partnership,” said Giuseppe Candela, Vice President of Global Sales at TPConnects. “Riyadh Air’s innovative approach to offer and order management is truly groundbreaking, and we are confident that the Iris platform will enhance revenue potential while delivering greater flexibility and choice.”

🛫 What Does This Mean for the Industry?

In short, airline retailing is growing up. Fast.

This move positions Riyadh Air as another Middle Eastern airline and a savvy digital retail player with a real stake in innovation. They’ve done their homework and are building for the long haul.

Likewise, for travel agencies, this is a precise nudge that the old guard of airline distribution is crumbling: no more static fare buckets and limited ancillaries. Consumers want—and deserve—choice, Customisation, and pricing that makes sense in real time.

🧳 Final Boarding Call

For an airline that has yet to launch its first flight, Riyadh Air is already disrupting the game’s rules. By embracing NDC not just in name but in execution and teaming up with an aggregator that understands modern distribution from the inside out, they’re ensuring a globally connected launchpad for travel sellers, agencies, and passengers alike.

So, as the sun rises over Saudi Arabia’s futuristic capital, Riyadh Air is proving it’s not here to compete merely. It’s here to lead.