Guest Post: The rise of AI to solve frequent flyer problems

How will AI help the travel sector to overcome challenges for flyers?

FlyFi, an app that utilises articifial intelligence (AI) to improve travellers’ experiences, walks Travolution through the applications of AI within the travel sector, its benefits and how we can overcome challenges faced by frequent flyers.

With the future of business travel being shaped by the rapid advancement of AI technology, the impact of AI in the tourism industry has revolutionised how people travel and navigate, providing digital solutions that streamline processes and enhance the overall travel experience. It’s transformed the industry by automating and optimising various aspects, from personalised recommendations to efficient booking systems. Its ability to process vast amounts of data, learn from patterns and make intelligent predictions has made it an invaluable tool. One area where AI is making a significant difference is in solving the problems frequent flyers face. 

Booking Complexity:  Frequent flyers typically have to navigate multiple airline websites and booking platforms to find the best deals and convenient flight options. This process can be time-consuming and overwhelming, leading to frustration.

Flight Status Updates: Staying updated with real-time flight information, such as delays or cancellations, is crucial for frequent flyers. However, tracking individual flights can be a cumbersome task, especially when flying with different airlines.

Web Check-In: Traditional check-in processes at airports can be tedious, with long queues and time-consuming procedures. Frequent flyers often need to check-in multiple times, leading to unnecessary waiting and potential delays.

Currency Conversion: When traveling internationally, frequent flyers often need to deal with currency conversion. Calculating exchange rates and converting currencies can be confusing and result in financial discrepancies.

Seat Selection: Frequent flyers prefer specific seat preferences for comfort or convenience. However, navigating through different seat maps and available options can be complex and time-consuming.

AI can resolve these issues faced daily. An example of AI technology overcoming these problems for travellers’ advantage, is Flyfi - an AI-powered travel app. 

Comprehensive Flight Booking: The app can aggregate flight data from various airlines and booking platforms, providing users with a single platform to compare prices, flight schedules, and amenities. This simplifies the booking process and saves time for frequent flyers.

Real-time Flight Updates: The app can track flight statuses across different airlines and provide real-time updates to users. This feature helps frequent flyers stay informed about any delays, cancellations, or gate changes, allowing them to adjust their travel plans accordingly.

Web Check-In: The app can integrate web check-in features for various airlines, allowing users to check-in for their flights directly through the app. This eliminates the need for manual check-ins at the airport.

Currency Converter: The app can include a currency conversion tool that provides accurate and up-to-date exchange rates. Frequent flyers can easily convert currencies within the app, eliminating the need for external calculators.

Flight Seat Map: An AI-powered seat map feature can provide users with a visual representation of available seats on their flights. Additionally, the app offers comprehensive seat maps for various aircraft, enabling users to select their preferred seats.

Additionally, by examining historical flight data, the software may inform users of the potential for a flight to be delayed or cancelled. As a result, users may opt for different trip arrangements.

What does it mean for the future of business travel?

The integration of AI technology in the travel industry has paved the way for a promising future in business travel. As AI continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative solutions and enhanced experiences for frequent flyers. Here are some potential advancements on the horizon:

Intelligent Travel Assistants: AI-powered virtual assistants will become more sophisticated, capable of understanding natural language and providing personalised travel recommendations. These assistants can assist frequent flyers in planning their itineraries, suggesting the best routes, accommodations and local attractions based on their preferences. With voice recognition capabilities, travellers can interact with these assistants hands-free, making their travel experience more seamless.

Predictive Analytics: AI algorithms can analyse historical data, weather patterns and other relevant factors to predict flight delays or disruptions. By proactively alerting travellers and suggesting alternative arrangements, AI can help minimise the impact of unforeseen circumstances and ensure smoother travel experiences. This predictive capability will allow frequent flyers to make informed decisions and adjust their plans accordingly.

Smart Luggage Tracking: With AI, tracking and locating lost luggage will become more efficient. Intelligent luggage tags equipped with GPS and RFID technology can provide real-time updates on the whereabouts of luggage. Algorithms can also help optimise baggage handling processes, reducing the likelihood of baggage mishaps.

Enhanced Personalisation: Algorithms can analyse travellers’ preferences, previous bookings and travel history to offer personalised recommendations and tailored experiences. From suggesting preferred seat options to recommending in-flight entertainment or dining choices, AI can provide a personalised travel journey. By understanding their preferences and habits, AI-powered apps can anticipate their needs and offer customised services.

Virtual Reality (VR) Travel Experiences: As VR technology continues to advance, frequent flyers can expect immersive travel experiences without leaving their homes or offices. AI-powered VR platforms can simulate destinations, allowing business travellers to explore potential meeting venues, hotels, and local attractions before making decisions. This virtual exploration will enable frequent flyers to make more informed choices, saving time and resources.

AI is revolutionising the travel industry and addressing challenges faced by frequent flyers. As AI continues to evolve, the future of business travel looks promising, with intelligent travel assistants, predictive analytics, smart luggage tracking, enhanced personalisation and virtual reality experiences on the horizon. By embracing the power of AI, the travel industry is set to provide seamless and tailored experiences for all travellers including frequent flyers, making their journeys more efficient, enjoyable, and stress-free. As we move forward, the collaboration between AI and the travel industry will continue to shape the future of business travel, transforming the way we explore the world.