LAS VEGAS, Sept 7 — A conference exploring the future of travel kicks off in Las Vegas this week, where 700 industry leaders will convene sharing ideas on how to improve the flying experience.
Here's a look at some of the innovative programs and ideas that will be showcased at the 11th edition of Future Travel Experience Global in Las Vegas:
Mobile app seat auctions
A slew of mobile apps have launched recently allowing users to upgrade or change their seats with a few taps, notes Future Travel Experience. SeatBoost, for instance, has partnered with Virgin America, allowing fliers to bid for a better seat in business or First Class. The auction begins 90 minutes before departure and ends right before boarding begins. Seatfrog offers a similar service, while Seateroo allows passengers to pay another passenger to swap seats.
Future of terminal design
By 2020, passengers can expect their airport experience to be completely self-service, says Dennis Tierney, vice president of membership and customer experience at airline alliance oneworld. That means that smartphones will play an even bigger role in the flying experience, from check-in and retail to boarding.
Virtual reality
Not just a way to be entertained, virtual reality will take on a useful role in airports, says Tierney. For example, the VR technology could be used to allow passengers to read translations in their own language on directional signs, or be used to incarnate virtual assistants who would appear to remind fliers of their departure time.
High Dynamic Range
The next generation for in-flight entertainment includes High Dynamic Range TVs, improving image resolution, color and brightness on smaller screens.
The Future Travel Experience Global runs September 7-9 in Las Vegas. — AFP-Relaxnews
