This means that airlines will have to make significant changes in order to thrive and survive in a post-COVID world. And as you may have already seen in our article on How New Technologies Are Disrupting Incumbent Industries, one-way airlines can adapt to the new normal is through the use of technology. If you want to learn more about this, read on for a quick run-through of digital innovations that airlines will need as we approach the new normal.
SEO and Digital Marketing
AdWeek reveals that the airline industry lost billions, as countries implemented strict travel restrictions to slow down the spread of the virus. Now that several vaccines are on the way, the airline industry has to rely on optimal marketing strategies if it hopes to bounce back from these losses.
One way airlines can do this is by maximizing digital platforms. Ayima highlights how the right (SEO) and digital marketing strategies can help drive traffic and solidify a digital presence. Considering that a lot of people will be searching for travel options once it’s returned to normal, airlines will want to optimize their site in order to better reach their target markets. When reach and visibility are concerned, SEO undoubtedly plays a crucial role.
Virus Testing Apps
Other than marketing, the airline industry will also have to prioritize the public’s safety. And while airlines are already taking the proper precautions to minimize the risk of passengers getting the virus by implementing social distancing protocols, technology can also be a great tool to making air travel a little bit safer.
Virus-testing apps such as CommonPass help airlines verify the health status of their passengers, as the app tracks and records the passengers’ test results. It also takes the different travel restrictions and requirements of other countries into consideration, giving airlines an easier way to ensure that no one on their flight is putting the other passengers at risk. Other than making it more convenient for airlines, security measures such as this can also help put passengers at ease and make them more willing to travel again.
Contact Tracing Technology
Another factor that airlines have to address is proper contact tracing in case someone on their flight tests positive for COVID. Luckily, there are apps that have been developed for this as well.
Travel and Leisure’s article on the use of contact-tracing apps highlights how New York and New Jersey have developed a state-specific app to help track individuals that have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus. It does this through the use of Bluetooth technology, as it is a non-intrusive way of seeing who individuals come into contact with. Countries such as India have made use of similar apps and have required passengers to download them to minimize the risk of infection. It’s safe to say that apps such as these will become commonplace, especially within the airline industry.
For more information on the airline industry and how it will adapt to the new normal, check out the rest of our articles here on Information Design!
Written by: Margaret Jones