Digital transformation in travel has been propelled by the pandemic, with travel businesses investing in safe and seamless tech in the short term for the restart. While technologies like AI are beginning to be deployed to tackle the current challenges faced by destinations and local communities like over-tourism and visitor dispersal. Next gen game changers like 6G are still on the horizon offering truly immersive travel experiences and new ways to solve the climate emergency.
Innovation
As part of the pandemic response, governments and international organisations like IATA and the EU have rolled out digital health schemes in line with mass vaccinations. However, challenges remain including interoperability and vaccine equity.
AI with biometrics has been a major boon for travel businesses, and the potential of AI which ranges from data analytics, machine learning and deep learning to neural networks is enormous. For now, the focus for AI is firmly fixed on creating a safe, seamless and secure environment, while transitioning more to daily tasks and tackling major pain points.
Next generation
Next-generation technology is already being created and tested, including breakthroughs in sustainable aviation fuel and electric/hybrid aircraft to help reduce travel and tourism’s carbon footprint. Innovation is critical if the sector is to meet the self-regulated targets of CORSIA as well as the 1.5°C pathway for net zero emissions by 2050.
With 5G not fully up and running yet, work has begun by the likes of China, the US and Europe on 6G and its potential capabilities. Tech omnipresence will usher in an era of hyper-connectivity and offer consumers truly immersive experiences.
Speakers
Caroline Bremner, Head of Travel Research, Euromonitor International
Caroline Bremner manages the global content strategy for the travel and tourism industry at Euromonitor International, which she joined in July 1996. Caroline has a degree in French (MA (Hons), University of Edinburgh) and Postgraduate Diploma in European Marketing and Languages (PG Dip, Napier University, Edinburgh). Read More