Virgin Atlantic is reportedly set to be the first airline in the world to make use of wearable technology in serving its passengers via hi-tech gadgets like Google Glass and Sony Smartwatch.
The concierge staff in the airline's Upper Class Wing would make use of wearable computing technology to deliver the aviation industry's most high tech and personalized customer service yet.
Based on its recently published study about how travelers see the future of air travel, the airline has decided to kick start its six-week long pilot scheme in collaboration with air transport IT specialist SITA, and evaluate the results before a wider roll-out.
As soon as the Upper Class passengers step out of their chauffeured limousine at Heathrow's T3 and are greeted by name, Virgin Atlantic staff wearing the technology would begin their check-in process.
Simultaneously, they would be able to provide them with their latest flight information, weather and local events at their destination and translate any foreign language information.
Wearable technology is also expected to tell Virgin Atlantic staff their passengers' dietary and refreshment preferences, anything that provides a better and more personalized service.
The airline is also testing iBeacon with its Upper Class passengers at Heathrow, a new low-powered Bluetooth transmitter that can notify nearby iOS Apple devices of nearby services, discounts and updates on their flight boarding schedules.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
