The traveler of 2026 is more digitally savvy and demanding, which presents significant technological challenges for airlines and travel companies. Several studies on the technological trends that shape the travel sector this year confirm this. In this article, be bolder will explore the five most impactful travel tech trends, from artificial intelligence and mobility to biometrics and cybersecurity. Buckle up!
1. AI, analytics, and automation
Technology is no longer just a driver of innovation; it’s an accelerator of efficiency and experience. A study by WTTC and Trip.com highlights the integration of artificial intelligence into the industry as the most prominent element among a broad range of technologies transforming the travel sector, generating positive impacts on operational efficiency and delivering a better experience for travelers.
The implementation of mobile technologies and the digitization of processes make end-to-end automation even more valuable. IATA notes that travelers are increasingly managing bookings from their smartphones and want to be able to do more from their mobile devices. This expectation makes analytics and automation a necessity that increases efficiency and improves customer satisfaction.
The current operational context makes efficiency a requirement, not an option. IATA projects sustained passenger traffic growth through 2026 and warns of potential constraints in resource supply, such as limited aircraft availability and a shortage of skilled personnel. With the pressure to increase capacity, automating processes and decision-making becomes strategic for maintaining profitability.
The recommended actions for 2026 should connect business value with actual execution across channels and operations. The ACI report indicates a growing interest in personalized and memorable experiences that combine technology with human interaction. The recommendation is to prioritize actions that reduce turnaround times, improve conversion rates, and increase customer satisfaction.
2. Digital identity and biometrics
The advancement of biometrics is now measurable and offers clear advantages for the end user. IATA reports that the increased application of biometrics is boosting satisfaction among frequent users, as having access to and responsibly managing data streamlines processes. It also notes that privacy requires guarantees, which presents a significant challenge in data management.
Airports are experiencing growing demand to provide travelers with new services and enhanced experiences. ACI describes user interest in off-airport solutions such as remote check-in, baggage drop-off, and biometric verification. Furthermore, the report indicates that the share of travelers willing to use biometric data rose from 57% in 2021 to 72% in 2025, helping expedite the process.
While the challenge is not only technological, given the interoperability between countries and stakeholders, technology is a facilitator. IATA suggests the rapid implementation of digital identity to strengthen the security and efficiency of the process, through document integrity, global trust, and interoperability, simplifying verification without weakening regulatory oversight.
The public policy framework is also evolving to avoid disjointed technological solutions. ICAO has updated its principles document for the Digital Travel Credential, revising some definitions, transmission protocols, and the risk table. This outlines a hybrid approach, including virtual and physical components, designed to address current border management needs.
3. Wallets and verifiable credentials
Changes in payment routines are already evident between the years studied. IATA reports that cards still dominate, but their use is declining compared to 2024, while the use of wallets and instant payment methods is growing. This trend suggests a redesign of payment, refund, and reconciliation processes, aiming for a more seamless and improved passenger experience.
The wallet is no longer just a means of payment; it’s becoming a repository for identity and loyalty. IATA indicates that 78% of passengers want a smartphone that combines a digital wallet, a digital passport, and loyalty cards, enabling streamlined booking, payment, and airport process completion. This suggests the experience will shift toward portable credentials rather than repetitive forms.
The way we sell and serve customers is aligning around offer and order. The NDC factsheet outlines a standard for omnichannel distribution built around offer and order management, covering order and service creation as well as cancellations, payments, and refunds. This connects payments with post-purchase management, which is often where trust is earned or lost.
The transition to an order-based model integrates ecosystem stakeholders and reduces administrative complexity. IATA explains that ONE Order creates an integrated customer record to simplify fulfillment, delivery, and accounting throughout the lifecycle. It also highlights the impact on PSS providers, e-commerce platforms, agencies, and GDSs, as well as partners such as hotels.
4. Cybersecurity and digital trust
Digital transformation brings with it an explicit requirement from passengers themselves: peace of mind. IATA warns that, although travelers want more digital processes, trust must continue to be built, and cybersecurity must always be the priority. It even states that the entire process must revolve around privacy, from the storage of sensitive data to its management and deletion from databases.
Digital identity raises the security standard for travelers, but it also expands the risk perimeter. IATA maintains that digital identity can strengthen document integrity, reduce fraud, and enable interoperable verification. This same approach requires access controls, robust verification, and cross-border coordination so that the benefits do not turn into incidents.
ICAO’s recommendations show that the issue is not only technical but also one of policies and mitigation processes. In its updated DTC policy, ICAO incorporates clarifications, principles for information transmission protocols, and an updated risk table. This framework suggests that mature adoption requires decisions about acceptable risks and how to share data.
IATA emphasizes that security and experience must be integrated without hindering digital progress, protecting digital identity from the outset. This also involves defining governance and risks in credential sharing and transmission protocols, so that interoperability does not increase vulnerability. Finally, it recommends measuring user trust levels by assessing willingness to share data, for example.
Before we go
The travel tech landscape in 2026 reflects a clear transition toward a hyperconnected and frictionless ecosystem, where operational efficiency and the traveler experience are tightly linked.
The consolidation of artificial intelligence, biometrics, and digital wallets not only helps expedite airport transit but also strengthens a digital trust model grounded in data sovereignty and cybersecurity.
Thus, in 2026, the success of airlines and the travel sector will be measured by their ability to integrate these technological tools seamlessly and ethically, allowing passengers to travel worry-free.
At be bolder, we stay up-to-date with the latest travel tech trends to meet the demands of the travel world, co-creating tailored travel tech solutions to help our clients bring their boldest visions to life.
We would be happy to help you find solutions tailored to the needs of your airline or travel company.
Commercial Team
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* Image by Design team on bebolder.co
