AirFi has launched WingMan, which it claims is the first-ever real-time AI travel assistant to be available inflight.
Powered by AirFi LEO connectivity, the tool delivers personalised, real-time travel itineraries to passengers while in flight.
Travellers access the web-based portal directly from their seat using their Wi-Fi enabled mobile device.
WingMan prompts passengers to provide details such as destination, trip duration, group size, budget and other personal preferences, in a multiple-choice format.
Passenger responses are then merged by WingMan to form a query, which is sent to the ground and processed through an AI algorithm.
A customised itinerary for their trip is then supplied, which users can save or share with travelling companions
Airlines can also integrate ancillary offers for passengers, such as bookings for tours, activities and services.
WingMan integrates with AirFi’s portable and wireless inflight entertainment (IFE) solution, alongside movie, TV, music and magazine options.
Airlines can also deploy WingMan independently of the entertainment content if their aircraft only have the AirFi LEO Connectivity system.
The technology uses the Iridium Certus network connection provided by LEO Connectivity.
WingMan continuously refines recommendations by learning from user interactions and accessing real-time local information to provide up-to-date suggestions for any destination.
“This is a world-first innovation that aligns perfectly with our mission to enhance the inflight experience,” said Laura Rösges, who succeeded Job Heimerikx as CEO of AirFi on April 1.
“AI is transforming the way we travel, and bringing that capability onboard creates new possibilities for both passengers and airlines. This is just one of many unique features that we have in the roadmap for our LEO Connectivity solution.”
