Imagine a globally interconnected aviation ecosystem where information flows seamlessly between stakeholders, enabling airlines, travel agencies, and technology providers to integrate effortlessly and deliver more convenient, personalized services to travelers. This vision lies at the heart of the IATA Open Air API certification program.
I. Certification Overview
The IATA Open Air API certification ensures compliance with industry standards and best practices, facilitating interoperability and data exchange among aviation stakeholders. Certified APIs gain formal recognition from the International Air Transport Association, enhancing their credibility within the global aviation marketplace.
II. Required Applicant Information
Prospective applicants must prepare the following details:
- Full name: The applicant's complete legal name
- Organization: The company or institution represented
- Email address: A valid contact email for official correspondence
III. API Documentation Requirements
The application requires comprehensive technical documentation about the API:
Technical Specifications
- Production Base URL: The operational endpoint for testing and validation
- API Name: Official designation for identification purposes
Functional Specifications
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Core Capability:
Primary function as defined in IATA Open Air Best Practices Section 3.1, including:
- Flight search functionality
- Booking systems
- Check-in services
- Baggage management
- Order processing
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Compliance Level:
Certification tier (Level 0-2) indicating adherence to:
- Basic requirements (Level 0)
- Recommended standards (Level 1)
- Full compliance with all best practices (Level 2)
Supporting Documentation
- IATA Guideline Version: The specific standard version implemented
- Technical Description: Comprehensive functional and operational details
- Developer Portal: URL for API documentation and resources
- Specification Reference: URL for technical documentation (OpenAPI/Swagger preferred)
IV. Certification Process
The evaluation procedure involves five key stages:
- Compilation of all required documentation
- Formal submission to IATA's designated review channel
- Technical assessment by IATA's certification team
- Operational testing in controlled environments
- Issuance of certification upon successful validation
V. Certification Benefits
Successful certification delivers significant advantages:
- Enhanced industry credibility through IATA endorsement
- Improved market visibility among aviation partners
- Increased interoperability with other certified systems
- Optimized service reliability and user experience
VI. Operational Considerations
The certification timeline varies based on API complexity and IATA's evaluation workload, typically requiring several weeks to complete. Applicants should note that unsuccessful submissions may be revised and resubmitted after addressing any identified deficiencies.