Will the Use of Social Media Affect Air Travel?

RMN Digital | July 6, 2012 | Europe, Lifestyle, Masses, Opinion, Regions, Surveys | No Comments

Social media is like a dark tunnel that most have seen from the surface, but no one knows what’s there inside it. Now, some are even apprehensive that since people are connected through social media sites, they won’t travel to meet each other.

Here’s a survey that sheds light on this aspect. Airbus company reveals the latest findings in a two-year global consultation with more than 1.75 million people which spells out what passengers want from flying in the future: more sustainable; less stressful; and more of it, despite social media revolutionising how we keep in touch.

63% of people worldwide say they will fly more by 2050
60% do not think social media will replace the need to see people face-to-face
96% believe aircraft will need to be more sustainable or ‘eco-efficient’
Almost 40% feel air travel (door-to-door) is increasingly stressful

[ Also Read: Southwest Airlines Previews Live TV Inflight on Five Aircraft ]

“Aviation is the real World Wide Web,” says Charles Champion, Airbus executive VP, Engineering. “The results of the survey show that there is nothing better than face to face contact. The world is woven together by a web of flights that creates ever-expanding social and economic networks: 57 million jobs, 35 per cent of world trade, and US$2.2 trillion in global GDP.

“Since we launched the Future by Airbus, we have engaged with people in 192 countries in a dialogue about the future of air travel. This resulted in our revolutionary Airbus Concept Plane and Cabin which offer a glimpse into some of the innovations that could meet evolving passenger trends and environmental considerations. It’s clear that people are really excited about the future of sustainable flight and we want them to be part of shaping that future.”

According to Airbus, it has engaged with over 1.75 million people through airshows, events and online since 2010. Its latest findings, released today – July 6 – are based on responses from 10,000 people across 10 countries.

Photo courtesy: Airbus