The rise of digital technology has changed how things are done around the globe. This fundamental shift is more pronounced within the travel industry. In addition, new technologies have been introduced into terminals and boarding areas due to the need for social distancing. As such, passengers can navigate through airports and other terminals with minimal interaction.
Since the start of COVID-19 in 2020, many companies in the travel industry have brought out several travel solutions. Doing this helps make difficult situations easier for travelers. Similarly, there are several other technologies used to assist customers. Below are the top digital trends reshaping the traveling experience.
Self-service
The need to keep people away from each other increased the demand for self-service. Additionally, such technologies allow users to go about their business via a touchless experience. Therefore, passengers mostly do not have to physically touch the equipment, which reduces the risk of contracting the virus. Many travel companies have developed mobile apps for passengers. These applications are considered a priority within the industry, and thousands of dollars are spent on improving research and development. Similarly, web-based applications and kiosks have been enhanced to improve safety. These technologies are being made more independent as companies and government regulatory bodies try to minimize contact with people.
In particular, several airlines have invested money into developing contactless kiosks. Within these platforms, individual systems have been enhanced. These systems include:
- Passenger Reconciliation Scheme;
- User-friendly software interface;
- Infrared sensor;
- Contactless payment system.
Several technology companies are working closely with travel companies and airports to roll out these technologies. As a result, it is expected that self-service may likely be the most used method of interaction within an airport.
Improved Health Screening
COVID-19 has forced the travel industry to think of new ways to identify people that are likely to be sick. Hence, many airports have introduced thermal equipment to automatically check the temperature of travelers. This equipment has proven essential in identifying people with fever who may be infected. Beyond thermal cameras, several airport authorities are coming up with newer ways of keeping the travelers' vital signs. There is equipment that can measure temperature, respiratory rate, heart rate, and other vital signs.
Biometrics and Facial Recognition
These two technologies have had a lot of success in mobile devices. The travel industry is trying to include biometrics and facial recognition into its system. It minimizes contact, and speeds up security checks before boarding. Therefore, passengers can quickly check in either with their faces or fingerprints. Already, several airports across Asia have adopted these technologies. Its use is expected to increase within Asia and expand to Europe and North America.
Conclusion
Several digital trends have emerged that are reshaping the travel experience. These trends have risen mainly due to the 2020 pandemic. Several advanced self-service apps and kiosks have been developed to limit contact between people. Improved health screening systems have been designed to identify sick passengers. Likewise, several travel companies and airports are taking advantage of the benefits of biometrics and facial recognition technologies.