Introduction
The travel industry is a unique one, constantly evolving with emerging technologies shaping the future of adventure. As we inch closer to 2025, a plethora of new tech trends are set to transform the way we experience travel. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionize the industry, making everything from smart airports to personalized experiences a reality. The infusion of AI promises a more seamless and efficient travel experience, enriching the passenger journey in unprecedented ways.
In the following blog, we dive into the technologies that will shape the way we look and interact with the world in 2025.
Let’s start with smart airports.
Concept of smart airports
According to IGI Global Scientific Publishing, a smart airport is a sophisticated and integrated airport environment that leverages cutting-edge digital technologies to interconnect all systems and data sources for the purpose of enhancing customer satisfaction, improving operational efficiency, achieving strategic differentiation, and promoting economic diversity.
Biometrics, facial recognition, and fingerprint scanning
In the realm of biometrics, facial recognition, and fingerprint scanning, the landscape of authentication is on the brink of significant advancement projected for 2025. With continuous technological progress, biometric authentication is poised to adopt heightened security measures, effectively minimizing the potential for unauthorized access. The evolution of biometric systems will usher in a new era of fortified security mechanisms, with the widespread adoption of multi-factor authentication leading the charge [1]. This innovative approach encompasses the amalgamation of diverse biometric modalities, including fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans, to create a sophisticated and multi-layered security infrastructure.
As we move towards 2025, the integration of these cutting-edge technologies promises to revolutionize the realm of authentication, bolstering security frameworks and fortifying defenses against potential threats.
IoT (Internet of Things)
The integration of IoT (Internet of Things) in airport operations, coupled with advancements like 5G connectivity, is poised to revolutionize the aviation industry by enhancing its agility and scalability in implementing IT solutions for increased operational efficiency. These IoT solutions pave the way for enhanced operational processes, ensuring visualized safety measures and delivering hyper-personalized customer experiences throughout the passenger journey [2]. This innovation not only offers peace of mind to travelers but also alleviates the common stress associated with uncertainties regarding baggage handling.
AI and predictive analytics
AI is paving the way for transformative advancements in airport operations through predictive analytics. By tapping into its capacity to process copious amounts of data and provide proactive insights, AI is revolutionizing crucial areas such as flight scheduling and air traffic management. Noteworthy is that AI has the power to refine fleet size and composition, ultimately resulting in cost savings concerning fuel expenses and maintenance. A case in point is Ryanair’s implementation of a leading scheduling optimization tool, which played a crucial role in augmenting seat capacity by a substantial 38 percent from summer 2019 to 2022 [3].
When considering the operational aspects of airports, predictive analytics driven by AI plays a crucial role in enhancing efficiency. By harnessing the power of predictive analytics, airports can optimize the management of key resources like check-in counters, gates, and security lanes. Particularly during peak travel periods, AI enables real-time adjustments in staffing and resource allocation. This dynamic approach not only reduces wait times but also enhances the overall passenger experience by creating a smoother flow throughout the airport.
Autonomous vehicles and a new era
Cars with AI
Autonomous vehicles have been in the spotlight the last few years and for good reason. The adoption of AI in vehicles has truly revolutionized the way we drive [4]. The incorporation of advanced machine learning systems in current vehicles has significantly transformed driving experiences by enabling real-time decision-making capabilities without the need for human intervention. Looking ahead, future cars will be interconnected with other vehicles, smart devices, thus creating a collaborative network. The imminent availability of autonomous vehicles, expected to cater to services like airport transfers and long-distance travel, demonstrates the immense potential AI holds in reshaping the automotive industry.
Drone technology
According to BCC Market Reports, the drone market is set to skyrocket to $24 billion by 2029, with a significant growth rate of 13.8% annually. This surge is largely attributed to the incredible advancements in drone technology. With cutting-edge features like high-resolution cameras, sensors, GPS systems, and artificial intelligence integration, drones are becoming invaluable tools in various industries. One exciting development is the utilization of drones for direct luggage delivery to hotels, revolutionizing the travel experience by relieving travelers from the burden of handling their bags.
Hyperloop to the future
Travelling at supersonic speeds will become a reality in the near future. The promising innovation aims to transform long-distance travel, offering a swift and effective alternative to conventional trains. An illustrative case can be found at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam, where a strategic alliance with the Dutch company Hardt Hyperloop showcases the potential of this groundbreaking technology. Through a comprehensive joint study, it has been shown that the Hyperloop could serve as a sustainable form of high-speed transport, capable of potentially replacing a significant number of short-distance flights by the year 2050. By substituting short-haul flights with the Hyperloop, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol stands to gain increased capacity, solidifying its standing as a premier European aviation hub.
Health and safety technologies
As we transition towards 2025, the integration of health and safety technologies is paramount in reshaping the landscape of travel.
Digital health passports
Digital health passports are set to revolutionize the way travelers explore the globe post-pandemic. These passports, stored on smartphones or wearables, will contain essential biometric information, guaranteeing the legitimacy of a traveler’s health data. This innovation will significantly enhance the efficiency of verifying individuals’ health statuses, simplifying the procedures for airlines, border control agencies, and service providers to safeguard the well-being of all passengers. Embracing such technologies will be crucial for ensuring a secure and seamless journey for every traveler worldwide.
Evolution of contactless technology
The evolution of contactless technology is poised to revolutionize the travel and tourism industry through innovation and efficiency. This advancement will set a new standard for seamless and hygienic travel experiences, enhancing every step from check-in procedures to touchless elevators and voice-activated room services. Travelers can anticipate amplified experiences, increased efficiencies, and sustainable practices. Furthermore, this technological progress will redefine the way people explore the world, with airports, hotels, and other travel hubs embracing advanced cleaning protocols and deploying AI-powered robots to ensure cleanliness and safety standards are met. Contactless technology will not only be reshaping the way we travel but also setting a new benchmark for convenience and safety within the industry.
Wearable technology
In recent years, wearable technology has emerged as a promising tool in the realm of health and wellness monitoring, offering a pathway to personalized and proactive healthcare solutions. Devices like bracelets, watches, and integrated clothing are now equipped to track vital signs including heart rate, temperature, and oxygen levels. This advancement is particularly beneficial for travellers, enabling them to receive real-time notifications on their health status and detect early signs of illness. As we look ahead, the future of wearables shines brightly, with continuous innovations expected to fuel widespread adoption and further advancements in the field [5].
Looking ahead to the future
As we look ahead to the future, the landscape of travel is on the brink of transformative change, mainly with sustainability and personalization. The technologies or trends highlighted in this blog are only a glimpse of what’s on the horizon. Smart airports offering seamless, frictionless experiences, AI-driven services catering to our every need, and the excitement of embarking on environmentally friendly journeys are just the tip of the iceberg. The future of travel is poised to offer an exhilarating journey like no other.
At Embross, we design, install, and deploy a broad spectrum of biometric solutions to help you achieve these significant changes. If you would like to learn more, do not hesitate to contact a member of our expert team: info@embross.com
Author: Omar Abbasi, Marketing Manager
References:
[1] https://faceonlive.com/biometric-authentication-trends-and-predictions-for-2025/#:~:text=In%202025%2C%20biometric%20authentication%20is%20expected%20to%20witness%20trends%20such,of%20contactless%20solutions%20post%2Dpandemic.
[2] https://www.kellton.com/kellton-tech-blog/iot-ushering-new-era-smart-airports
[3] https://skiesmag.com/news/harnessing-power-ai-bridging-intelligent-automation-human-judgment-improved-flight-operations/
[4] https://blog.gigas.com/en/self-driving-cars-the-future-of-driving
[5] https://psico-smart.com/en/blogs/blog-the-role-of-wearable-technology-in-health-monitoring-trends-and-innovations-161069