Like everything else, travel is evolving as new technology is developed. As CNN Travel reports, some of the technology making its way into mainstream travel was once seen only in sci-fi shows and movies. Think The Jetsons’ flying car or James Bond’s biometric scanners.
Here’s a peek at what we might be seeing in the not-to-distant future and some futuristic stuff that is already in use:
Biometric Identification – Airports worldwide are starting to use this technology that automatically verifies one’s identity using fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scans. It’s supposed to be a faster and more accurate way to screen passengers. Biometric identification is nothing new. The Dubai International Airport introduced biometric “Smart Gates” tunnels, which use facial recognition to verify travelers’ identities in as little as five seconds, five years ago. If you’re traveling to Europe next year, you might experience biometric identification yourself. The European Union plans to introduce an automated entry-exit system that uses fingerprints and facial images to identify foreign travelers and streamline border control checks.
Flying Taxis – Drones may soon be used to transport people. Electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft may soon become a reality. Sometime this year the company that makes these futuristic aircraft is supposed to embark on a cross-country tour allowing passengers to test the electric, ultra-light aircraft which uses auto-pilot software. Travel experts predict personal flying cars will revolutionize adventure travel – making it easier to visit exotic places like Machu Picchu. And don’t be surprised if, in the future, you see flying taxis being used to help alleviate traffic congestion. Autonomous robotaxis are already shuttling passengers around the Las Vegas strip.
Digital Bag Tags – With airlines mishandling or losing millions of pieces of luggage each year, passengers have started using AirTags and other tracking devices to keep tabs on their checked baggage. That might not be necessary as airlines start to adopt digital bag tags that contain RFID transmitters. Such products could allow travelers to register and activate their luggage tag at home, then drop the suitcase at a self-service kiosk and track it via an app.
Are you ready to hop aboard a driverless helicopter? Message The Seniors Trust on Facebook or Twitter and let us know what you think of the futuristic ideas that could soon become travel realities.
