The airline industry is one of the biggest in the field of transportation. Today almost 4 billion passengers chose to travel in an airplane. This number is quickly growing every year, which means that the airline industry is becoming increasingly more competitive.

With an increased number of airlines worldwide, the industry must improve its operations to reduce costs and optimize profitability. New technologies are also being integrated to help today’s airlines achieve these goals. Low code and no code development and Artificial Intelligence are making airline operations more efficient, flights safer, and allowing environmentally friendly flight routes.

Here are five new technologies that are reshaping the airline industry today.

1. Biometrics and Digital Identity

The Happy Flow was one of the first biometric projects in airports. It took place in 2015 in Aruba. This was the use of technology to get travelers quickly and easily from the door to the gate. A digital biometrics system controlled check-in, bag drop, security and immigration, and boarding. Passengers never even had to talk to anyone while completing the process. It boasted a more stress-free, fast process. While most airports haven’t applied this level of technology, different programs and apps are augmenting the efficiency of check-in and control of passengers around the world.

2. Robotic Airport Assistants

Robotic assistants in airports are becoming more and more popular every year. They are a common sight at the Munich airport and in Japan Airlines and EVA Air, among others. These robotic assistants were designed to be autonomous delivery machines to help passengers order contactless delivery from any location. They also assist in guiding people through the airport; some can even carry luggage.

3. Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is gaining popularity in many industries, and airlines are no exception. From chatbots to voice-based tools, AI is currently improving the flight experience of millions of travelers worldwide. Airline companies understand how vital Artificial Intelligence is in helping them to achieve their profitability goals and enhance customer experience. One great example of Artificial Intelligence applied to the airplane industry is AirHelp, which allows for quick and accurate assessment of delayed and interrupted flights. This technology quickly assesses whether or not passengers are entitled to compensation for delayed and canceled flights.

4. Blockchain Technology

Although the blockchain is often related to cryptocurrencies and the financial market, this technology can also be applied to airline operations. The blockchain is a digital ledger in which the information is protected by cryptography. This can be used in airports to provide safe storage of digital passports and improve the security of the identification process. However, it still needs more research to be applied and used to its full potential in this field.

5. Sustainability

AI and new technology help with sustainability as well. With an increased number of flights worldwide, airlines have felt the need to invest in new technologies to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. Although the deployment of electric or hybrid engines is still not a reality, we can be sure that it will be something real in just a few more years. Being more environmentally friendly attracts many of the younger generations, helping airlines not only to profit but to be greener.

Technology for a Better Experience

At more than 100 years old, the airline industry is being reshaped. This is due to several factors, such as the growing numbers of flights worldwide and the advent of new technologies. Statistics say that new technologies applied to airline operations have a positive impact and are well received by users, which could mean we should expect more changes in the future.