Jennifer Axness
Originally published on Amadeus Insights.
Peter Altmann, VP Mobility & Travel Protection, Hospitality, Amadeus
In the ever-evolving landscape of travel, understanding traveler preferences is essential for shaping the industry’s future. At Amadeus, with our finger firmly on the pulse of the industry, we are committed to driving innovation that is in sync with these emerging trends. Our recent report: ”Driving change: Future Trends in Mobility,” surveying 600 travelers between March and May of 2024, provides invaluable insights into the factors that influence travelers’ choices. From the findings, 6 key trends emerged:
1. Cost and Convenience Drive Decisions
The report reveals that cost and convenience are the primary factors influencing the decision-making of more than half the individuals surveyed, underscoring the need for mobility solutions that are not only affordable but also easily accessible. This is where strategic alliances between various companies, as highlighted in our whitepaper with Microsoft, can play a pivotal role in delivering these solutions.
When considering a switch in travel providers, travelers also prioritize improved pricing and convenience. This feedback is invaluable, as mobility providers and travel sellers aim to enhance their offerings, ensuring they not only meet but exceed traveler expectations.
2. Growing Interest in more Eco-Friendly Transportation
The survey also sheds light on the growing interest in more eco-friendly transportation options. While environmental impact may not be the primary consideration for most travelers, a significant portion (38%) are willing to choose more sustainable options when available. This trend presents an opportunity for innovation in making more eco-friendly choices more accessible and overcoming current barriers to their adoption.
3. Embracing Peer-to-Peer Services
There is a clear shift towards a shared economy in mobility, with over half of the respondents of our survey embracing peer-to-peer services. However, the industry must also navigate challenges such as varied comfort levels with autonomous vehicles. Building trust and acceptance among travelers is critical as we move forward with this technological innovation.
4. Demand for One-Stop-Shop Apps
The concept of a one-stop-shop app for managing diverse mobility services resonates strongly with most survey participants, indicating a strong market demand for integrated solutions. Amadeus, with its proven expertise in creating seamless travel experiences, is well equipped to meet this need. The concept of Mobility as a Service (MaaS), as explored in our whitepaper, confirms the industry’s shift towards such integrated offerings.
5. Addressing the Last Mile Challenge
Addressing the last mile challenge – a concept linked to the apprehension travelers often experience when reaching an unfamiliar destination – represents another opportunity for Amadeus. Covering every leg of the traveler’s journey emphasizes the necessity to leverage big data to provide more personalized experiences. Offering the right services based on travel motives and the traveler’s overall preferences will be key.
6. Cautious Adoption of Subscription-Based Models
Lastly, the mixed responses to subscription-based models for car rentals suggest that new service models should be introduced cautiously. While there is interest, the strong preference for car ownership among travelers is a factor that cannot be overlooked.
The Mobility Trends Report not only provides a snapshot of current traveler preferences, but also charts a course for Amadeus’ strategic journey. By embracing these key trends, Amadeus reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future of travel, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of innovation, delivering solutions that resonate with travelers worldwide and benefiting both mobility providers and travel sellers. This aligns with our vision for the Amadeus Mobility portfolio, to pioneer B2B mobility with diverse, cutting-edge services for a seamless digital experience.
To see the full survey results and further explore travelers’ attitudes towards the evolving mobility sector, download the report here.
