Virtual reality headsets which use emotional recognition to suggest tailored content may soon become part of the in-flight experience, it has been claimed.
Changes could be implemented as early as next year alongside high-speed WiFi and personalised entertainment systems, according to the Amadeus Travel Trends 2025 report in collaboration with Globetrender.
It predicts the emotionally intelligent virtual reality headsets may be loaned to first class and business passengers, which premium airline start-up Beond started doing with Apple Vision Pros on its Maldives route.
Founder of Globetrender Jenny Southan said: “Airlines will integrate emotional recognition cameras to suggest content based on passengers’ moods and could also alert crew members about signs of distress, fear, or anger.”
In-flight entertainment systems may also suggest super-tailored content for flyers, by tracking historical preferences of loyalty scheme members.
The report also believes high-speed WiFi will be widely available on flights as early as next year, driven by the importance of streaming platforms, with providers such as SpaceX’s Starlink making it possible.
CEO of Spanish technology company Amadeus, Luis Maroto, added: “The only thing we know for sure is that travel is constantly changing, and in the sector, the impact of technology is extremely relevant.”
In a digital world, Amadeus also recognises the importance of real human connection, where passengers are longing for simpler nostalgic trips.
Mr Southan added: “For consumers themselves, who are under pressure to keep finding joy in a volatile world, it is no surprise to see people looking to the ‘good old days’ when life was simpler, and turning to traditional means of making human connections, in spite of the ascent of artificial intelligence and other sci-fi technology.”
Amadeus believes travel will become a new avenue for real-world relationships, with rising “online dating burnout” leading people to seek connections in real life.
There may be an upgrade to economy class, as the report predicts cabins with beds and doors could be introduced not only to VIP passengers, but also for economy class.
Technology company Amadeus worked together with agency Globetrender, which annually forecasts travel trends.
