Future travel Experience

Long Beach Airport has expanded its live music program. LGB Live! will feature performances from professional artists and acclaimed youth performers whose music will fill the airport’s indoor-outdoor concourse. Long Beach Airport – Headline Partner of FTE Global , the “CES of Aviation” taking place on 9 to 11 September 2025 – has expanded its live music program. LGB Live! will feature performances from professional artists and acclaimed youth performers whose music will fill the airport’s indoor-outdoor concourse. “Whether you’re departing, arriving, or just passing through, Long Beach Airport is proud to present some of the rich musical talent of our Long Beach community,” said Airport Director Cynthia Guidry. “LGB Live! is another way that our airport provides a cool, easy-going travel experience.” Performances are typically held post-security for ticketed travellers from 15:00 to 17:00 on Thursdays and Fridays, and from 11:00 to 13:00 on Sundays, with additional shows during busy tr...

Zurich Airport has selected ‘the food collective ag’ to operate the new TREATS food hall. The 2,000sqm food hall, opening in autumn 2027, is set to become a new gastronomic highlight at Zurich Airport. Zurich Airport – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has selected ‘the food collective ag’, a Pointbreak Group company, to operate the new TREATS food hall. The 2,000sqm food hall, scheduled to open in autumn 2027, is set to become a new gastronomic highlight at Zurich Airport. TREATS will offer over 1,000 seats – making it one of the largest food halls in Switzerland. The hall will span two levels and feature a diverse selection of local and international specialties, including 16 food stalls, food trucks, four bars, and a café. Additionally, the space includes a stage for events and multiple outdoor terraces. “At TREATS, the focus is on enjoying food and socialising – true to the motto: Treat yourself!” said Stefan Gross, Chief Commercial Officer, Fl...

Japan’s Kansai International Airport is installing three Rohde & Schwarz QPS201 security scanners. The installation is part of an extensive renovation of Terminal 1, including advanced screening equipment. Japan’s Kansai International Airport – part of the network of VINCI Airports (a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub ) – is installing three Rohde & Schwarz QPS201 security scanners. The state-of-the-art scanners will be utilised in new checkpoints. The QPS201 scanner model is designed to combine the highest level of detection capabilities with efficient and intuitive procedures to benefit both passengers and staff. They employ innovative millimetre-wave technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based algorithms to meet all regulatory requirements for detecting prohibited items while minimising false alarm rates. This technology aims to ensure that security measures are both effective and user-friendly, enhancing the overall passenger experienc...

TUI Airline has selected Immfly to carry out a significant transformation of the onboard experience. They are implementing cutting-edge tech to enhance CX with seamless connectivity and entertainment. TUI Airline has selected Immfly, a leader in digital onboard solutions, to carry out a significant transformation of the onboard experience. As part of this collaboration, Immfly’s next-generation digital platform is being integrated into TUI Airline’s Boeing 737-800 and 737-8 aircraft, with up to 60 aircraft live to customers by summer 2025. With this deployment, TUI Airline is implementing Immfly’s cutting-edge technology designed to enhance the passenger experience through seamless connectivity and entertainment. TUI’s passengers will gain access to a fully digital inflight ecosystem, featuring: Real-time messaging – enabling passengers to stay connected through WhatsApp during the flight, with Immfly delivering this service via Iridium connectivity. Experiences – browse and book...

Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport is moving into the next phase of its F&B transformation, with four new restaurants to open later this year reflecting “a deliberate mix of national reach and Houston flavour”. Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is moving into the next phase of its food & beverage transformation, bringing some of Houston’s most recognised names with it. Four new restaurants will open inside the airport later this year: Killen’s Barbeque, Common Bond Bistro and Bakery, Spindletap Brewery and Yard House. The announcement marks the start of Phase 3 in the airport system’s multi-year effort to overhaul concessions. Each new concept adds something different to the line-up. Killen’s is a Michelin Guide-recognised barbecue institution. Common Bond is a bakery and brunch spot known for its cult following. SpindleTap is one of Houston’s highest-rated breweries. Yard House brings a national footprint but will feature a Houston-centric design and a large selection o...

JetBlue is introducing new features designed to make the inflight experience more personalised as part of ‘Blueprint’. This includes expanded meal options and more tailored inflight entertainment. Last year, JetBlue introduced Blueprint by JetBlue – a personalised inflight experience designed to bring the entire travel journey to customers’ fingertips. Building on features like Watch Party, JetBlue is enhancing seatback entertainment with even more customisation. From expanded meal selection options to more tailored entertainment, JetBlue is introducing new features designed to make the inflight experience more personalised. Travellers can now enjoy meals tailored to their needs with new capabilities and greater dietary visibility when ordering in Mint. JetBlue is the only U.S. airline that allows customers to see and select available meal modifications for food allergens directly from their seatback screen. Preferences include nut-free, dairy-free, gluten-free and vegetarian options, ...

Wizz Air has launched its ‘Customer First’ transformation plan by rolling out ‘Customer First Compass’ – a framework that is designed to place customers at the forefront of every aspect of its operations. Wizz Air has launched its ‘Customer First’ transformation plan by rolling out ‘Customer First Compass’ – a framework that is designed to place customers at the forefront of every aspect of its operations. The airline will be investing around £12 billion over the next three years to enhance every customer touchpoint, with the aim of ensuring that punctuality, affordability, innovation and service shape every journey. Anchored in four key pillars – Product, Price, Service and Communication – ‘Customer First Compass’ outlines Wizz Air’s future direction and renewed commitment to its customers, including investing in state-of-the-art technology, improving reliability, and delivering enhanced customer support. The transformation marks a step-change in how the airline services its customers...

airBaltic has enhanced its digital services with a streamlined self-service tool within the Manage My Booking section of its website. This allows passengers to independently adjust their travel plans. airBaltic has launched an enhancement to its digital services – a streamlined self-service tool within the Manage My Booking section of its website. The new function allows passengers to independently adjust their travel plans with ease and flexibility, as it aims to significantly enhance the overall customer experience. Customers flying on airBaltic flights with ticket numbers starting with 657 can now modify their flight dates at any time without the need to contact customer support. The tool offers clear visibility of available flight options, fare differences, and applicable change fees, while instant payment processing is designed to ensure a smooth and seamless modification experience. “At airBaltic, we are dedicated to continuously improving the customer experience by introducing i...

Perth Airport is partnering with international hospitality company Delaware North to develop four first-to-market food & beverage concepts for its International Terminal, as it refreshes the customer offering. Perth Airport is partnering with international hospitality company Delaware North to develop four first-to-market food & beverage concepts for its International Terminal (T1). Three of the new sites are in the International Terminal’s landside departures precinct, with the fourth located in the airside departures area. The new outlets include: Gage Roads Sports Bar – T1 Landside: Delaware North has collaborated with Gage Roads Brew Co to develop the first Gage Roads Sports Bar. The venue will feature multiple digital screens, a pub-style menu, an Entertainment Arcade, and showcase Western Australia (WA) produce and Gage Roads craft beers and ciders. Hungry Jacks – T1 Landside: A reimagined Hungry Jacks store will include self-order kiosks and operate 24 hours a day....

UK regional gateway Southampton Airport has launched an AI-powered digital assistant. Now live across the airport, it provides real-time information and enhances navigation throughout the terminal. UK regional gateway Southampton Airport – part of AGS Airports – has launched a state-of-the-art digital assistant, powered by Hello Lamp Post, which is designed to improve the travel experience for passengers. This new Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven technology, now live across the airport, provides real-time information and enhances navigation throughout the terminal, optimising the experience for travellers. A trial on using the new digital assistant was held last year at sister airport Glasgow in partnership with Connected Places Catapult with a focus on passengers who needed special assistance. The trial showed: 50% reduction in queries being received by customer service staff 12,300+ more passengers supported per year 86% satisfaction rate with service Following the succes...

Ink Innovation has entered a partnership to make BAGTAG’s platform available to all airlines using its systems, making it easy for airlines to implement digital baggage tagging within their check-in flows. Ink Innovation – a provider of advanced departure control and passenger handling solutions, and BAGTAG – a leader in electronic bag tags and a Partner of the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group , have entered into a new partnership to make BAGTAG’s platform directly available to all airlines using Ink’s systems. Through this collaboration, BAGTAG is now fully integrated into the Ink ecosystem, making it easy for airlines to implement digital baggage tagging within their check-in flows. Passengers can prepare their baggage at home using the BAGTAG mobile app, streamlining their journey before even leaving for the airport. BAGTAG fits perfectly with ZERO, Ink’s new concept designed to redefine the airport experience. Ink ZERO takes passengers through check-in, bag drop, security, and ...

In this deep-dive article, PIT, Connect Airlines, YEG and Carnegie Mellon University share their insights into scaling the use of SAF, electric, low carbon energy, hydrogen and more across air transport. Energy & sustainability innovation is no longer a future goal, but a critical necessity for growth in line with the global industry’s commitment to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Indeed, sustainability features in FTE’s ‘ 12 technology and CX trends that can enhance airline and airport operations in 2025 ’. In this deep-dive article – ahead of their participation at the FTE World Innovation Summit (Pittsburgh, 13-15 May 2025) – Pittsburgh International Airport, Connect Airlines, Edmonton International Airport and Carnegie Mellon University share their insights into scaling the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel, electric, low carbon energy, hydrogen and more across air transport. PIT establishing a new paradigm as an energy hub, not simply a transportation hub Pittsburg...

Hong Kong Airlines and Plaza Premium Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation and CX, extending the range of services available to their respective guests. Hong Kong Airlines and Plaza Premium Group (PPG) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation and extend the range of services available to their respective guests. This strategic partnership aims to leverage PPG’s expertise in global airport hospitality and Hong Kong Airlines’ commitment to elevating the global travel experience for passengers. Under the arrangement, Business Class passengers and frequent flyer members of Hong Kong Airlines will be eligible to access Plaza Premium Lounges worldwide. Currently, the airline operates a network of over 30 destinations across Asia Pacific and North America. PPG operates its flagship Plaza Premium Lounges in over 150 countries worldwide, covering almost all the destinations in Hong Kong Airlines’ network. This year, the airline is launchi...