What Is a GDS? Global Distribution System Explained

Avatar photo Tripgic Team,

A global distribution system is the old engine of travel sales. It connects travel agencies to airlines and hotels. As a result, one agency can book many suppliers in one place. This guide explains the global distribution system in plain English.

First, you will learn what a GDS is. Then, you will see how it works. Finally, you will learn how it compares to a modern travel API.

What Is a Global Distribution System?

A global distribution system is a large network. It links travel sellers to travel suppliers. The big names are Amadeus, Sabre, and Travelport.

Agencies use it to find fares and book trips. You can read more on the Wikipedia page on global distribution systems.

How a Global Distribution System Works

  1. A supplier loads its fares into the GDS.
  2. An agency searches the GDS for a trip.
  3. The GDS returns matching fares and rooms.
  4. The agency books through the GDS.
  5. The GDS sends the booking to the supplier.

This model has worked for decades. However, it was built for a different era. Therefore, it shows its age in some areas.

How a GDS works: supplier loads fares, GDS network, agency searches, books, supplier confirms

Why Agencies Still Use a GDS

The GDS still has clear strengths. So many large agencies still rely on it.

  • Wide reach across many airlines and hotels.
  • One screen to compare and book.
  • Trusted by large, established agencies.
  • Strong support for complex trips.

The Limits of a Global Distribution System

A GDS also has real limits. Specifically, it can be costly and slow to join.

  • High setup and segment fees.
  • Long certification before launch.
  • Thin content from low-cost carriers.
  • Older tech that is harder to build on.

As a result, many new platforms look for a modern path. To compare both, read our guide on travel API vs GDS.

GDS vs Modern Travel API

A modern travel API is faster to join and easier to build on. It often uses clean, modern data formats. Moreover, it can blend GDS, NDC, and low-cost carrier content.

New standards also change the picture. For example, read our guide on what NDC is. It shows how airlines now send richer offers.

Old GDS versus modern travel API comparison

Should You Use a GDS or an Aggregator?

It depends on your size and goals. Large agencies may keep the GDS. However, new platforms often prefer one modern API.

An aggregator can give you GDS reach without the heavy setup. To learn how, read what a travel API aggregator is.

Global Distribution System FAQ

What does GDS stand for?

GDS stands for global distribution system. It is a network that connects travel sellers to airlines and hotels.

What are the main GDS systems?

The three big systems are Amadeus, Sabre, and Travelport. They power much of global travel distribution.

Is a GDS still used today?

Yes. Many large agencies still rely on a GDS. However, new platforms often prefer a modern travel API instead.

GDS or travel API: which is better?

It depends on your size and goals. A GDS gives wide reach, while a modern API or aggregator is faster and easier to build on.

Final Thoughts

A global distribution system still powers much of travel. But it is costly and old in places. Therefore, many new platforms choose a modern API instead.

Tripgic gives you wide travel content through one modern API. You skip the heavy GDS setup. Talk to our team to see the easier path.

Travel Tech