Travelers Will Pay More for Convenience

What:
Flight-tracking mobile app FlightView surveyed 2,300-plus travelers on what makes a positive airport and in-flight experience. Responses reveal that travelers are ready to shell out more cash for additional amenities — and not just standard Wi-Fi access or early boarding.

Why It Matters:
With an improved U.S. economy and a flourishing travel industry, respondents are willing to dig deeper into their pockets for the sake of smooth travel. On ground, baggage-related requests are significant, but up in the air, tech takes precedence. Nearly 60 percent of respondents indicated interest in services such as a radio-frequency identification tag for real-time luggage tracking and the ability to check luggage temporarily at the gate. Meanwhile, half of those surveyed said they would pay for in-flight items such as high-speed Wi-Fi access, an in-seat charging station and texting capabilities. Evidently, convenience is worth the extra dough, and savvy travel agents should recommend these services when available.

Fast Facts:
- 60 percent of all respondents would be willing to pay for premium services at the airport, including a radio-frequency identification tag for real-time luggage tracking (53 percent); the option of temporarily checking luggage at the gate to dine and shop more freely (40 percent); priority baggage claim (37 percent); curbside rental car pickup (35 percent); automatic flight status alerts to relevant parties, such as family and ground transport (26 percent); and ability to pre-order food and drinks at airport restaurants.

- 75 percent of millennial respondents are willing to pay for the above services.

- 50 percent of all respondents are willing to pay for premium in-flight services, such as high-performance Wi-Fi with streaming capability (64 percent); in-seat charging station (50 percent); texting capabilities (31 percent); and early deplaning privileges (22 percent).

- 60 percent of millennial respondents are willing to pay for the above services.

What They Are Saying:
“Ultimately, it comes down to convenience, communication and choice,” said Mike Benjamin, CEO of FlightView. “That’s what today’s travelers want and are willing to dig deeper in their pockets for – whether they’re planning a trip, booking their ticket, waiting at the airport, boarding, flying or arriving at their destination. Our survey found that airport and airline executives may be overlooking a real opportunity to drive new revenues and improve the travel experience.” 

The Details