Air Canada’s Bold Move into Blockchain
In a game-changing announcement made on October 24, Air Canada, the country’s largest airline, revealed its plans to delve into the world of blockchain technology. Known for connecting over 48 million passengers annually, this strategic leap is poised to enhance the way air travel products are bought and sold.
The Technology at a Glance
Air Canada is set to team up with Winding Tree, a Swiss startup specializing in blockchain-based travel distribution. This innovative platform aims to eliminate intermediaries and provide direct access to air travel inventory, improving efficiency and transparency. Keith Wallis, Air Canada’s Director of Global Product Distribution, emphasized the promise of blockchain by stating:
“We plan to integrate Air Canada’s Direct Connect API with Winding Tree’s public blockchain platform, giving blockchain-savvy users the ability to access our content directly from the source.”
Why Blockchain? Why Now?
Airlines globally are embracing blockchain technology, looking to refine operational processes and enhance customer experiences. By tapping into this decentralized technology, companies like Air Canada and Air France-KLM are not only seeking to revolutionize travel distribution but also aiming to increase profitability by slashing costs associated with intermediaries.
Case Study: Air France-KLM
Air France-KLM is making headlines with its collaboration with Winding Tree as well. Their goal? To provide travel offers that are not only attractive to customers but also beneficial to suppliers. This partnership is expected to streamline the booking process, offering a more cost-effective solution by minimizing the layers often present in traditional travel distribution.
Global Trends in Blockchain Adoption
Air Canada’s move is in line with a growing trend among airlines and airports. For instance, Brisbane Airport Corporation recently partnered with TravelbyBit to establish the world’s first digital currency-friendly airport. This initiative is seen as a step towards a tech-savvy future where transactions are processed through blockchain-backed systems.
The Future of Travel is Here
As more players in the airline industry harness blockchain technology, travelers can look forward to a more streamlined and cost-effective journey. With direct access to products and reduced intermediary costs, the future of travel might just be a bit brighter—and a whole lot simpler.
