Airports are often one of the most stressful and frustrating parts of travel, plagued by long lines, confusing layouts, and general frustration. But that experience can be transformed by an unexpected source of inspiration: sports and entertainment. Just as stadiums and arenas are adopting cutting-edge technology to enhance fans’ experience, the airline industry has the opportunity to echo this shift, offering passengers seamless, personalized journeys from curb to gate.
A key example is the LA Clippers’ Intuit Dome, which integrates digital identity, biometrics, AI-powered personalization, and frictionless commerce technologies to redefine the experience. With over 400,000 fans embracing Game Face ID in just six months, it’s clear that when tech works, its adoption increases. Now, digital identity, AI concierge services, and contactless commerce – key aspects of Globant’s blueprint for Intuit Dome – are becoming key technologies in the creation of a new era of travel.
At Intuit Dome, fans opt into a digital identity platform, which enhances their experience from the moment they arrive at the stadium by enabling frictionless entry and quicker purchases. Similarly, airlines are implementing digital ID programs to streamline security and boarding, locate missing connecting passengers, help travelers easily find their gate, favorite restaurant, or access VIP services. This shift reduces bottlenecks, enhances security, and creates a smoother, more personalized journey. Just as fans now enter Intuit Dome in as little as six seconds with Game Face ID – with no lines and no hassle – travelers could enjoy similar speed and convenience at airport checkpoints or premium lounges.
To embrace AI-driven concierge systems, airlines are deploying intelligent agents that anticipate passenger needs, deliver personalized promotions, and provide real-time itinerary updates. This shift transforms travel from a one-time transaction into a continuous, tailored journey, much like the engagement fans experience with their favorite entertainment brands, creating not only a unique journey for each passenger, but also a frictionless day of travel.
Contactless payment systems are another key technology enabling airlines to elevate their guest experience. For example, Intuit Dome is now achieving sales 4 to 8 times faster, thanks to contactless payments systems and data-driven commerce, resulting in shorter waiting times, giving fans more time to enjoy the game. Similarly, airlines are integrating these systems to allow for pre-ordered meals, personalized duty-free offers, and in-flight shopping. When paired with digital IDs and loyalty programs, contactless payments result in a faster, more satisfying passenger experience.
As the airline industry embraces these innovations, the next generation of travel is taking shape. The convergence of sports, entertainment, and retail-driven experiences underscores a broader transformation – one where passengers are no longer just travelers but engaged consumers. By adopting these advancements, air travel is evolving into a more intuitive, efficient, and personalized experience, proving that the best ideas don’t just stay courtside; they take flight.
Ready for takeoff? Partner with Globant to take the next leap in air travel innovation.
Author: Mariano Nardi, Chief Technology Officer of Globant’s Airlines Studio
*Find out more about Globant's engagement in the IATA's Strategic Partnerships Program on the partners directory.
