IAG, a leading airline conglomerate, is taking bold steps to enhance its digital transformation strategy by investing in start-ups Esplorio and Vchain.
This initiative follows the success of the Hangar 51 accelerator, reflecting IAG’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies within the aviation sector.
IAG’s Strategic Investment in Esplorio and Vchain
IAG, a prominent name in the airline industry, has embarked on a strategic venture by investing in two innovative start-ups, Esplorio and Vchain. These companies were selected after their participation in the Hangar 51 accelerator programme, which saw over 450 applicants eager to collaborate with IAG.
Esplorio, one of the chosen start-ups, is revolutionising the way travel experiences are documented and shared. The app simplifies the process of creating rich travel content by automating check-ins, route tracking, and photo uploads. This innovative approach not only transforms cabin crew adventures into digital stories but also enhances user engagement through seamless automation.
Vchain, on the other hand, is pioneering a blockchain-based Digital Identity solution. By addressing the widespread issue of inaccuracies in passenger information submissions, Vchain streamlines the airport experience for travellers. During the accelerator, their prototype demonstrated significant potential by automatically detecting and rectifying data errors online.
The Innovative Edge of Hangar 51
The Hangar 51 accelerator programme has emerged as a collaborative platform where IAG’s industry expertise meets the agility of start-ups. Its first iteration has proven fruitful, with Esplorio and Vchain standing out among five participants selected to work at IAG’s headquarters.
Stephen Scott, IAG’s head of global innovation, lauds Hangar 51 as a catalyst for transformative business solutions. He asserted, “Combining IAG’s industry expertise with the start-ups’ speed and agility has opened new horizons of value creation.”
Esplorio: Transforming Travel Narratives
Esplorio has taken a bold step towards redefining travel documentation. Its application not only automates user interactions but also intuitively integrates multimedia content for a richer experience.
Travellers can effortlessly map their journeys and document memories with minimal effort. The app’s capability to autonomously upload photos and track locations without manual input is a game-changer in digital travel narratives.
As Esplorio continues its partnership with IAG, expectations are high for the app to further refine these features and contribute to IAG’s digital transformation strategy.
Vchain: Enhancing Travel Efficiency with Blockchain
Vchain addresses a critical pain point in air travel – data accuracy. Nearly half of passenger data submissions to airlines contain errors that lead to manual corrections, often causing delays.
By leveraging blockchain technology, Vchain offers a robust solution in the form of Digital Identity SaaS. This not only enhances data accuracy but also expedites the passenger clearance process at airports.
The automatic correction of data inaccuracies not only saves time but also improves the overall travel experience for IAG customers, aligning with the group’s vision of operational efficiency.
IAG’s Vision for Digital Transformation
IAG’s investment in Esplorio and Vchain signifies a broader vision aimed at digital transformation within the airline sector. Such forward-thinking initiatives are critical as they align with IAG’s goal to enhance customer experiences through technology.
The investment fund backing these start-ups is indicative of IAG’s commitment to integrating digital solutions that offer practical benefits to passengers and improve operational processes.
The anticipated commercial roll-out of these digital solutions marks an exciting phase for IAG, promising innovative changes in how airline operations and customer services are delivered.
Looking Ahead
As IAG progresses with these start-ups, the focus will remain on expanding pilot tests into comprehensive commercial solutions. The roadmap is clear – transform these innovations into standard industry practices.
The ongoing collaboration underscores IAG’s dedication to fostering innovation and adapting cutting-edge technologies that drive efficiency and customer satisfaction in aviation.
This forward-thinking approach not only reaffirms IAG’s innovative vision but also sets a new benchmark for airline digital transformation.
The continued development and integration of Esplorio and Vchain’s solutions will likely bring significant enhancements to customer experience and operational efficiency.
