The travel industry is not exempt from the constant evolution of the world and the technological advances that have universal implications. In order to keep up with what is changing in travel technology, OAG has summarized key developments, trends, and solutions in the industry.
Southwest Airlines recently announced that it will use Amazon Web Services (AWS) to modernize its infrastructure and applications after last year's Christmas crisis. The outdated IT infrastructure played a major role in the widespread shutdown, so the airline will conduct a "large-scale migration" of its digital infrastructure to AWS. This will enable the airline to store data and execute analysis more efficiently and be better positioned to handle future volatility.
Luggage system disruptions have become more noticeable in recent months, with thousands of travelers returning from their vacations and experiencing lost or abandoned bags. While the causes vary, the increase in travel demand along with a shortage of workers often contribute to luggage loss or delay.
Many airlines use tried-and-true systems for tracking and transportation, but the lack of data sharing between parties remains a weak point. Bagtag aims to provide electronic luggage tags to airlines that work on a single baggage data exchange platform. Meanwhile, Shabstec is taking a similar approach by redesigning radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to work as a more efficient baggage tracking and scanning system. Versa provides baggage tracking for its customers, both in transit and storage, with its unique "flight mode" and "ship mode" visibility.
SITA, the communications and IT specialist, is focusing on addressing the worker shortage, another threat to the system, through automation. Key to the passenger travel experience is the security of their luggage.
As the spring holiday travel season approaches, Uber has announced new product features designed to make the process of finding a ride and leaving the airport more efficient and convenient. These include step-by-step guidance with photo displays to help guide passengers through the airport to their pickup location more efficiently, including estimated walking times from the gate to baggage claim and suggestions on when users should request their ride.
The company is also launching an update to reduce vehicle traffic and the time drivers spend waiting for passengers on the curb at select airports, all of which are among the largest and busiest in the United States.
As travel continues to recover in the summer season, these smart data-based technologies are expected to work to reduce congestion in and around airports and help passengers reach their destinations more quickly and effectively.
Finally, with the increase in weather-related phenomena related to climate change, the travel industry is one of many learning to adapt. Tomorrow.io, a weather prediction technology company, is helping to change the way the aviation industry understands and plans for weather. The company that invented the world's first "super-forecasting" weather platform has partnered with airlines to provide more accurate and reliable weather data, enabling them to make better decisions and avoid costly disruptions due to weather.
In summary, the travel industry is constantly changing, and to keep up with the pace of innovation, businesses must adopt new technologies and adapt their operations. By doing so, they can provide better experiences for travelers and reduce costs associated with disruptions and delays.
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