Customers could be taking holidays in a giant kite-shaped airship in years to come, the ITT conference heard today.
Agents could soon have to cater for customers who have ‘lived two lifetimes’ and tried every type of holiday, after scientists took a step towards developing artificial life last month, said Nick Talbot, director of design agency Seymour Powell.
The Aircruise concept is being developed by the agency after attracting investment from Samsung Construction & Trading.
The luxury ship will have low passenger numbers and large public spaces. The initial design involves four duplex apartments, a penthouse and five smaller apartments.
A trip on its Aircruise, which will be the size of the Eiffel Tower, could cost up to £300,000.
“There is no reason why this shouldn’t happen in our lifetime,” Talbot added.
For customers who have less spare cash, agents should offer “virtual holidays” that could be enjoyed from home.
“If there is a capacity crunch and holidays become too expensive, agents could provide ‘augmented reality’ experiences for people to use in their own homes,” said Talbot.
He said the travel sector had to stay ahead of technology companies to meet customers’ needs.
“You have to get out of the crazy situation where people will ask a travel agent’s advice but then book online,” said Talbot.
“Money is evaporating from your business to the technology companies.”
Talbot also said the development of high-speed rail in Europe and the influx of customers from China and Russia would create opportunities for the industry.