Travel is returning at speed in Asia Pacific, particularly in India – where the rebound now sits over and above 2019 levels and shows no sign of slowing. In fact, the Authorities of India have forecasted that total air passenger traffic will increase from 341 million (during 2019-2020) to 827 million by 2032-2033. To celebrate this, Priority Pass – owned and operated by Collinson – partnered with exclusive media outlet, Conde Nast Traveller India, to celebrate the return of travel with our esteemed clients in India on 3 February 2023. During this bespoke dinner event held at renowned restaurant Tresind in Mumbai, there were robust and engaging conversations around how the return of travel and the shift in traveller expectations will bring new opportunities for businesses to re-engage and deepen their relationships with their customers and build life-long loyalty through travel loyalty benefits, such as airport lounge access.
Fuelled by the pandemic and the digital acceleration that came with it, consumers’ expectations towards travel experiences have evolved. Today, the modern traveller seeks out more sophisticated experiences; experiences that are seamless and integrated, personalised, add value and enhance their status. An example of this being that travellers are now willing to pay for premium travel experiences that will enhance their journey – 47% of respondents said they will pay for access to lounges, 43% for an upgraded seat and 39%, a direct flight. More good news signalling a positive recovery to the travel industry are findings from our recent Global Traveller Sentiment Survey, which showed that nearly 62% of frequent flyers would rather cut back on non-essential retail purchases (e.g., streaming services, restaurants etc) than reduce travel budgets.
