Indigo Flight API: Exploring Airline Integration Opportunities

IndiGo, one of India's major airlines, has embraced technology to enhance its digital services. As of August 2023, they have introduced an API to facilitate seamless integration with third-party applications. This API offers access to a range of functionalities, including flight status, booking management, and other travel-related services.

Overview of IndiGo's API

Indigo's API is designed to provide developers with a robust platform to build and integrate applications that can interact directly with IndiGo's systems. This can help streamline processes for travel agencies, hotel booking platforms, and other travel-related services. The API typically includes features such as:

Flight status updates Dynamic pricing Flight booking capabilities Customer information management Travel-related services integration

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including access details and documentation, it is best to visit IndiGo's official website or contact their support directly for assistance.

Low-Cost Carriers and Full Service Carriers

IndiGo, along with SpiceJet, is categorized as a low-cost carrier (LCC), while other airlines such as Jet Airways, Air India, and Vistara are considered full-service carriers (FSC). When it comes to accessing airline inventory for these carriers, the options and cost implications differ.

For FSC airlines, you can access inventory via Global Distribution Systems (GDS) such as Sabre, Amadeus, or Galileo. However, for LCCs, you typically need to obtain an API from the airline itself, as direct inventory access through GDS is limited. This often involves a significant cost, as obtaining and maintaining an API can be expensive.

API Options for LCCs

There are companies that integrate APIs from multiple LCCs, but these solutions often come with their own challenges. These third-party providers might offer a cheaper initial solution, but they can be slow, have downtime, and still involve costs. If you are seeking a short-term solution with budget constraints, this might be a viable option.

In the long term, obtaining the API directly from each airline is the preferred method, even though it carries a higher cost. This ensures a more reliable and custom integration tailored to your specific needs.

Acquiring the IndiGo API

Unless you are a potential business prospect or have the capacity to afford the cost, it can be challenging to get access to the IndiGo API. As a business owner, it is rare to be interested in only one airline with limited international presence, when there is a strong national player.

For a short-term solution, you might consider the cheaper option of using GDS for inventory pull. However, the cost for this might still be significant, and it may not meet all of your business needs.

I intend to reach out to IndiGo directly to request the API and will update this article with my experience and further insights.

Resources:

IndiGo's Official API Website Contact IndiGo Support for more information Explore GDS options for inventory management