Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Open AXIS Group formed?
Given the intense need for standards for airline connectivity and distribution, inclusive of new airline merchandising strategies, it was determined that a new organization dedicated to airline connectivity was required. An airline focused group dedicated to full XML Schema standards accelerates the pace of development and adoption, and the ultimate speed to market. In addition, close collaboration with other industry organizations and standards groups is anticipated to further deepen the level and scope of innovation for all.

What functionality is supported by the Open AXIS Group Standard?
The Open AXIS Group standard supports comprehensive air reservation booking and servicing functionality, as well as new merchandising and optional services functions.
Review a detailed summary of Supported Functions.

Is membership limited to airlines only?
No, anyone in the travel industry can join. Read more about Membership in Open AXIS Group.

Are there any limitations on who can get access to the AXIS standard? 
No.  Open AXIS Group is just like the name says – open to anyone.  You do not have to become a member to have access to the Open AXIS Group XML standard schema.  However in order to have input on the schema, membership is required.

Do all members have a voice in the future direction of the standard?
Yes. The Open AXIS Group Board consists of both airline and non-airline (Allied) members, and a fundamental objective of the group is to foster open and productive communications among its members and for purposes of maintaining the industry’s most robust airline XML standard. Read Open AXIS Group Bylaws.

How do I propose a new contribution to the Open AXIS Group XML Standard?
Contributions to the Open AXIS Group XML Standard can only be submitted by members. Please refer to the Call for Papers for submission instructions.

Is documentation available for the Open AXIS Group Standard?
Yes. The Open AXIS Group API Zip file (download) has been designed to contain all the information needed to quickly get familiar with the standard and its business uses. In addition, future releases of the standard will build upon the body of available documentation, inclusive of feedback from the member community.

How often is the Open AXIS Group standard updated?
The standard is updated multiple times per year. However official upgrades are performed annually, inclusive of any contributions from members.

Does Open AXIS Group provide technical support to its members?
Absolutely. Ensuring the standard is well supported and documented is of highest priority among the organization’s objectives. Support for the Open AXIS Group schema is available from a combination of Open AXIS Group staff, as well as third party providers certified to work with the schema.  

How do I obtain technical support?  
Email support@openaxisgroup.org Depending on the nature and scope of your request, we will either be able to resolve the question free of charge or if not, we can review with you options for purchasing support. 

Are there limitations on how the schema can be used? 
There are no limitations per se.  The Open AXIS Group schema supports a number of airline related functions including booking, ticketing, refunds, exchange, payment, and even the newly adopted IATA standards around ancillary and optional services.  Third Party users of the schema have open access to the schema for these, but some functions will require specific airline permission to actually utilize certain functions.  We refer to these as “keys” or “permission keys” which can be developed for, but in effect only activated or turned on with specific airline permission. These keys are required from a content or financial liability point of view. 

For example, the Open AXIS Group schema supports airline ticketing functions.  Airline ticketing requires individual airline approval.  So any third party developer can develop airline “ticketing capabilities” using the Open AXIS Group schema, but that third party developer would have to have permission with each airline for actual ticket issue authority.

How often does Open AXIS Group meet? 
Initially the group expects to hold quarterly meetings.  This may change based on interest and activity level of the group. Meeting announcements will be posted on the Events Page.

How can 3rd party developers be sure that the AXIS Group standard will in fact be the industry de facto standard XML standard? 
The main reason is that the Open AXIS Group schema is, in our view, the most comprehensive standard out there to support the full scope of airline functions, from shopping, booking and ticketing to newer capabilities such as unbundled services and Electronic Miscellaneous Documents. Secondly, there is already marketplace acceptance and adoption of the Open AXIS Group XML, which gives the group a lot of momentum out of the box. So, while there are never guarantees about the future, we are highly confident that Open AXIS Group will remain the industry de facto XML standard