Airline Industry News

PhocusWire's in-depth coverage of the airline sector, featuring news, analysis, interviews, research and more on network carriers, low-cost airlines and package charters.

The airline sector continues to evolve rapidly, driven by technological innovation, shifting traveler expectations, and a dynamic global marketplace. PhocusWire delivers up-to-the-minute airline industry news with a focus on distribution strategies, operational advancements, customer experience, and sustainability in aviation.

Latest airline updates, trends, and aviation insights

Get a comprehensive view of what’s shaping the global airline landscape—from new fleet technologies and route expansions to loyalty program shifts and retailing transformations. Our coverage highlights how carriers are adapting to economic pressures, regulatory changes, and emerging consumer trends through digital tools, automation, and enhanced service models.

Artificial Intelligence and Travel Video
Technology
Artificial Intelligence and Travel Video
By Kulin Strimbu | February 5, 2018
SPONSORED: The travel industry is just barely sinking baby teeth into Machine Learning, so how does Artificial Intelligence creep into the mix? Read More
ATPCO buys content tech Routehappy to expand airline services
News / Distribution
ATPCO buys content tech Routehappy to expand airline services
By Jill Menze | February 1, 2018
As it assesses its future in the distribution landscape, ATPCO has acquired Routehappy to boost its rich content offerings. Read More
Google Flights AI update WayBlazer reaction
News / Technology
Google Flights can now predict flight delays before airlines
By Mitra Sorrells | February 1, 2018
Google’s latest updates to its Flights search engine combine artificial intelligence and data analysis to forecast flight delays and decipher the fine print of “basic economy” fares.   Read More
American Express buys Mezi chatbot
News / Startups
AmEx buys Mezi, embraces "do-it-for-me" model
By Mitra Sorrells | January 30, 2018
American Express has acquired artificial intelligence-powered assistant Mezi, which co-founder and CEO Swapnil Shinde says upends the current “DIY” trend of travel search and booking into a... Read More
Canada blockchain ID system test
News / Technology
Canada tests blockchain-based ID system for international travel
By Mitra Sorrells | January 30, 2018
The Canadian government is designing a project between its country and the Netherlands to test a new model for airport screening and security that uses biometrics, cryptography and distributed ledger... Read More
Wi-Fi now on 82 airlines, system upgrades on the rise
News / Technology
Wi-Fi now on 82 airlines, system upgrades on the rise
By Jill Menze | January 30, 2018
In-flight Wi-Fi is more prevalent than it’s ever been, with 82 airlines now offering the service, up 17% over last year. Read More
Ryanair, Toncheng-Elong, TripIt and more news briefs today...
Notated News / Technology
Ryanair, Toncheng-Elong, TripIt and more news briefs today...
By PhocusWire | January 30, 2018
Ryanair announces credit program… Toncheng-Elong adds wallet features… TripIt shares airport wait times… Choice Hotels debuts global reservation system… BCD Travel extends Amadeus partnership… Read More
Kayak Desktop Escape app
News
Kayak's new desktop app inspires wanderlust from the cubicle
By Mitra Sorrells | January 30, 2018
Mobile may be gaining ground for travel research and bookings, but the desktop still dominates.   Read More
CheapAir claims flight search display breakthrough
News / Online
CheapAir claims flight search display breakthrough
By Robert Silk - Travel Weekly | January 29, 2018
CheapAir has completed an upgraded flight-shopping interface that enables customers to make side-by-side comparisons of available fares, ancillary fees and amenities. Read More
Leisure and business travelers outline airline ancillary needs
News / Distribution
Leisure and business travelers outline airline ancillary needs
By Kevin May | January 29, 2018
It might be a low price that determines whether a traveler buys a particular airfare, but there are stark differences on the ancillary front that help fuel that decision. Read More
airbus AR app
News / Technology
New Airbus AR app takes travelers inside - and outside - the A380
By Mitra Sorrells | January 29, 2018
Building on the popularity of its iflyA380.com website, Airbus has created an iOS app to drive loyalty for the massive double-decker plane.   Read More
Criteo study mobile and booking apps
News / Distribution
Mobile travel bookings jump, especially for online agencies
By Mitra Sorrells | January 29, 2018
Travelers are increasingly turning to their phones – and away from desktops and tablets – to book trips and experiences.   Read More
Google Phocuswright leisure study
News / Online
Google's three trends to attract leisure travelers
By Mitra Sorrells | January 26, 2018
Google believes leisure travelers are “more curious, demanding and impatient than ever before,” and brands that will win them over are the ones that meet their needs quickly, easily and with... Read More
Prepare for impact: autonomous vehicles will reshuffle the travel industry
Opinion / Technology
Prepare for impact: autonomous vehicles will reshuffle the travel industry
By Alex Bainbridge - The Spontaneous Travel Company | January 26, 2018
Self-driving vehicles will, along with Blockchain, perhaps, be the next big industry-wide invention to make and break companies. Read More
Airlines should consider these critical trends (or fall behind)
Opinion / Technology
Airlines should consider these critical trends (or fall behind)
By Dave O'Flanaghan - Boxever | January 25, 2018
We are witnessing a "coming of age" for airlines and their associated approaches to MarTech. Read More
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