Would you like to know the top 5 things frequent flight travelers want and how the best airlines are meeting the expectations?
“I just love spending extra hours in the airport security line!” said no flight traveler ever.
When people get ready for takeoff on a flight, it’s not just about getting from one point to the other. They want better than that: they want a pleasurable experience, or at the very least, a stress-free one. Whether it’s a much-needed vacation or a mad dash to a crucial business meeting, passengers bring specific expectations on board.
In this read, we are going to see five things flight travelers want. Whether you are an airline CEO, a flight attendant, or a traveler yourself, you will find this useful and relatable. Let’s get started, shall we?
So, What Do Flight Travellers Want?
Truth be told, many things. If airlines were to try to meet every flight traveler’s needs, they would likely fold up in two months max! However, these five basic things should be considered non-negotiable, for any great airline.
1. Safety and Reliability
When travelers step onto an airplane, their number one concern is definitely safety. They need assurance that they are in capable hands. This is extremely more important when a first-time traveler is on a solo trip. They want to know that the aircraft has been meticulously maintained, and they are about to experience a journey that adheres to the highest safety standards.
It’s like they are committing their lives to the hands of the airline, literally. That’s a lot at stake! Thus, passengers genuinely value airlines that prioritize their safety.
Safety doesn’t start and end with the physical aircraft; it includes the competence of the flight crew and their obvious adherence to safety protocols.
Flight travelers find peace of mind when they know their pilots and cabin crew are experienced. They want to be sure their flight crew is trained enough to handle any possible scenario well.
Airlines that manage to instill this sense of confidence win the trust of their passengers. Soon enough, they become popular in the industry. More passengers will want to fly with them, and more airlines will try to copy them, for the right reasons.
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2. Comfort and Space
Once passengers settle in, they begin to notice the second important aspect of their journey: room and comfort. Nobody enjoys spending hours in a small, uncomfortable seat.
Imagine having a seat that is a little broader, with a little more legroom. Add that to the ability to recline without bumping into the person sitting behind you. Especially on those long journeys, these small conveniences add up to a big difference.
The winning airlines are those who up the ante with extras. A great journey can be achieved with the help of extra amenities like comfortable pillows, cozy blankets, and a wide selection of in-flight entertainment. Since who wouldn’t appreciate a little pampering, right?
3. Clear and Timely Communication
Yes, stuff happen, but remove the element of surprise, when you can help it.
We cannot stress enough how crucial it is to keep travelers informed. Specifically, when it comes to adjustments of flight plans or unforeseen events during their trip, passengers want to know early enough. Granted, schedules change, but connections must still be established because every passenger has something they want to catch up on. It is best to have timely updates on any important information, such as gate changes or aircraft delays.
Another way to communicate is to get feedback. Every airline should have a robust two-way communication system with its passengers.
In fact, the easiest way to know exactly what flight passengers want is to just ask. Let passengers leave honest reviews.
Warning: the reviews will not always be pleasant. But that’s the point, isn’t it? You want to know what will make your passengers choose another airline over you.
The best business people know that bad reviews can sometimes be better for businesses. That’s of course if managed properly. (Side note: get a well-trained team of customer support experts, and another of brand managers. That is the barest minimum).
What’s in it for the airline? When airlines communicate timely, and actively gather – and use – feedback, they present themselves as attentive and responsible. That is a huge plus for any business, let alone in the flight industry.
4. Friendly and Efficient Service
When passengers get on an aircraft, they expect efficiency in addition to safety and comfort. The way airline employees behave and work from check-in to check-out greatly influences the way passengers enjoy their travels.
It makes a lot of difference to be greeted warmly, and for flight attendants to be eager to assist with any queries or special requests. These thoughtful additions liven up the trip and produce enduring memories.
The clearance process is not left out. From check-in to security to boarding, passengers desire a simple, hassle-free experience. They get a sense that they are in good hands when they are not held up unnecessarily trying to get through the boarding clearance process.
5. Good Value for Money
Of all the things flight travelers want, this could be the most important. Flying customers need value for their money in addition to a safe and comfortable flight.
For travelers looking to get great deals without sacrificing a good experience, finding a balance between price and quality is a big deal. That’s why it changes everything to offer competitive prices.
When paired with the previously listed factors, airlines that provide affordable rates have the ability to draw in fiercely loyal customers.
Of course, cost-quality balance can be challenging. Premium usually means expensive, and airline maintenance is not cheap. The trick is to provide a variety of fare options that accommodate varying spending limits and preferences. As much as you can, let your frequent passengers know the cheapest days to book a flight. Many of them will be willing to book their flight in advance.
Two extra benefits that travelers value are loyalty programs and frequent flier benefits. Loyal clients are more likely to remain loyal and do business with you again when they are appreciated.
Best believe airline passengers deliberately seek out these chances, because who doesn’t like a good discount? Thus, where the airlines can afford it, loyalty programs are a great way to keep flight travelers happy.
Also Read: 10 Actions That Will Get You Kicked Off a Plane
Conclusion
The things flight travelers want are not unachievable. Any serious airline, who truly cares about their customers must pay attention to them. Besides, without these basic requirements, the business may not be sustainable. When they combine these five points, airlines can offer travelers a smooth and fulfilling experience that encourages repeat business.
