In another interesting day at APEX/IFSA Global Expo in Long Beach, California, the airline passenger experience industry converged to see the latest technologies and inflight solutions, and to share insights.
There were several announcements on the show floor, including Delta Air Lines unveiling its new inflight moving map system designed to enhance accessibility for passengers with disabilities. While Delta’s existing flight map was already built to meet all Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and European Accessibility Act (EAA) standards, Delta saw an opportunity to push further.
Alongside inflight map provider FlightPath3D, the airline collaborated with its Advisory Board on Disability, presenting an early version of the map for hands-on testing and feedback that was instrumental in refining the final design and functionality that customers will experience today.
Delta’s new map system features clearer visuals and improved navigation options, making it easier for travellers to plan their journeys. The map aims to provide a more inclusive experience by addressing the specific needs of all passengers. The system will be available on 165,000 seatback screens across Delta’s fleet.
Elsewhere on the show floor, Korean Air announced it has renewed its inflight entertainment partnership with Spafax. The renewed agreement, effective 4th October 2024, includes the introduction of Spafax One, a platform for tracking onboard content and media delivery, and Spafax IQ, a data analysis tool for understanding passenger preferences.
Another announcement at the show was that Plus Ultra has just become the first European long-haul carrier to adopt AirFi’s LEO connectivity solution. With its innovative window-mounted antennas, AirFi LEO adds zero drag to the airframe, which means Plus Ultra gets all the perks of a connected fleet while maintaining greener operations.
In other news at APEX/IFSA Global Expo, Neo Space Group (NSG), a Saudi Arabian commercial satellite services provider, was selected by Thai Airways International to provide in-flight connectivity (IFC) for its fleet. The announcement includes the activation of NSG’s IFC technology on Thai Airways’ future A321NX aircraft and existing B777 fleet, utilising Airbus HBCplus and Safran’s AeroConnect terminals, respectively.
Panel discussions and activities
The lineup of airline industry leaders, curated by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), continued their presentations.
The first panel discussion on day two was ‘Loyalty and Latitude: Maximising In-Flight Ancillary Revenue Through Personalised Experiences’. The speakers included Mark Muren from United Airlines, Wirush Theparak from Thai Airways, Oren Butansky from El Al, and Nick Ewen from The Points Guy, who highlighted the critical role of personalisation in modern airline revenue strategies.
The panellists emphasised that loyalty programmes are now powerful data repositories, enabling airlines to tailor services and offer seamless travel experiences. By leveraging passenger preferences and behaviour patterns, airlines can offer targeted in-flight products and complementary travel services such as car rentals and hotel bookings. The discussion also underscored the importance of empowering flight attendants through training, equipping them with the skills and tools to deliver personalised interactions that enhance the overall passenger experience.
In another panel discussion titled ‘Overcoming Supply Chain Challenges for Onboard Product Innovation’, Stephane Schulte of Lufthansa Group and Josh Hirschheimer of Porsche Consulting discussed essential strategies to navigate supply chain complexities and drive innovation in their onboard offerings. The speakers emphasised the need to diversify vendors to mitigate risks and foster collaboration among stakeholders to ensure schedule adherence. The importance of tracking suppliers’ financial health and prioritising workforce capacity was also highlighted.
Culinary demonstrations
APEX/IFSA Global Expo visitors also enjoyed cookery demonstrations by renowned chefs Sam Choy, Gary Klinefelter and Jamie McAfee, who showcased their culinary talents. Dubbed the ‘Godfather of Poke’, Chef Choy presented a contemporary rendition of Hawaiian poke in an inari bowl. Chef Klinefelter dazzled with a chilled shrimp confit with a tomato nage, using locally sourced ingredients. Meanwhile, Chef McAfee offered a tender maple duck breast with barbecue sauce. Guests were not only treated to samples of these dishes, but also engaged in lively discussions about the cooking processes, sustainable sourcing, and modern tastes.
