Checking out noteworthy initiatives Vistara and IndiGo have taken in the wake of the pandemic.
The pandemic has affected all aspects of life, transforming our daily lifestyle, including the way we travel,” shares Vinod Kannan, Chief Commercial Officer, Vistara, summing up the mood of travellers today. “Today, there is already an increased focus on safety and hygiene which will continue to be among the top considerations for customers.”
He adds: “Digitalization is playing an increasingly important role in reducing human interaction and ensuring overall safety. Worldwide, technologies like IoT, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, etc. are being deployed facilitating a seamless and contactless travel experience. Vistara, since its inception, has embraced technology innovations and will continue to invest in this direction.”
Air travel is one of the safest modes of transport and I say this with confidence after an international IndiGo flight to Dubai. IndiGo is taking essential safety precautions at every step during the journey, right from the baggage drop counter all the way till baggage claim making the complete travel experience contactless and seamless.
THINKING OUT OF THE BOX
What impresses one most about Vistara and IndiGo both is the powerful, in-built air filtration systems (HEPA) on all of the aircraft to guarantee the removal of viruses and bacteria. HEPA aircraft filtration systems function most proficiently by transporting approximately 50 per cent outside air and 50 per cent filtered recirculated air.
The filter eradicates 99.99 per cent of dust particles, moisture and airborne pollutants such as viruses and bacteria. Continuous top to bottom air circulation decreases the risk of cross-contamination. As such all the air in the cabin is fully filtered and refreshed every two to three minutes.
Vistara also has biometric facial recognition entry and boarding solution for passengers flying from select metro airports in India. “At Vistara, safety of our customers and staff is of paramount importance to us. To ensure maximum hygiene and overall safety of customers and our staff, we follow measures in line with the regulatory guidelines,” explains Vinod.
INDIGO SALUTES MEDICAL WORKERS
IndiGo also took the ‘Tough Cookie’ initiative on cloud 6E to salute the brave hearts of 2020 – doctors and nurses – asking people to visit goIndiGo.in and nominate their favourite doctor or nurse along with a heartfelt note for them.
Joining hands with brands like Barilla, Brewhouse, Cars24, Dettol, Ibis and Loacker who also believe in the cause – celebrating the medical frontline workers – they continue to provide their tireless services to the nation and humanity in these unprecedented times.
First 5,000 doctors and nurses received the ‘Tough Cookie Kit.’ Co-created by all these brands it comprises goodies and vouchers along with the heartfelt notes.
William Boulter, Chief Commercial Officer, IndiGo, said, “As the country is still going through a difficult situation amidst the pandemic, our frontline workers have not given up and are continuously showing their commitment by serving the nation in this time of need. We are glad to have joined hands with these iconic brands who also continue to support the real Tough Cookies of our nation.”
Not surprisingly, this noble outreach by IndiGo drew all round praise and won the hearts of not just medical front-line workers but also all the travellers.
TRAVEL TRENDS
“First and foremost, I foresee travellers shifting from price-driven to knowledge-driven travel,” says Riaz Munshi, Director, N Chirag Travels and President,
Outbound Tour Operators Association of India, adding, “Consumers will gravitate towards advisors who can steer them in the right direction and give them the confidence that, should an unforeseen event like this happen, they will be well taken care of. There would be greater inclination towards wellness retreats, isolated islands and scenic countryside over crowded places.”
“Remote getaways and staying longer in a single place would steer tourism in a direction that is more impactful, meaningful and responsible,” he concludes.
