For many of us, travel is an essential part of work. After all, it enables us to build and fortify business relations across the world. And very often, flying is the easiest way to do this. Unsurprisingly, this form of travel has changed hugely over the past decade – and it’s largely down to changes in customer demand.
So, just what are business travellers most likely to expect in a flight today?
Wireless internet access
From client outreach to schedule handling, the internet plays a key role in almost all business tasks – in fact, most companies rely on it daily.
So, as wireless connection is already commonplace in offices and other workspaces, why shouldn’t it be available on business flights?
That’s exactly what many professionals today ask. Rising demand for wireless online access during flights has led several airlines to offer this service to business travellers.
This tends to come at a small price (typically under £5), though, as a number of firms that offer inflight wi-fi charge extra for the service. Some, however, provide free internet access to passengers so long as they’re using apps that they’ve downloaded prior to the flight.
Given the heightened demand for in flight wi-fi, we could see more flight companies providing this service for free in the future.
On-flight work facilities
If you’re on a business flight, it makes sense to work during some of your journey. With little else to do and no operative responsibilities, a flight can be the ideal opportunity to prepare for any upcoming business tasks.
Yet go back 10 years, and this was often tricky to do, as few airlines offered sufficient working spaces. But now, this is a typical feature on business flights – and it’s mostly due to an increase in clients asking for in-flight business facilities.
Private jets for example offer a range of provisions, including desks, meeting areas and more. Of course, if they’re flying through a private company, clients can choose to use the aircraft entirely for business tasks, such as brainstorming and team exercises.
So, could better working facilities on planes help professionals to perform better after having arrived at their destination?
Leisure opportunities
While it’s important to work during business flights, it’s also crucial to relax before arrival. That’s why many business passengers of today expect equal opportunities for work and pleasure.
This demand is widely known as “Bleisure” – a portmanteau of the words business and leisure – and is particularly prevalent among young professionals. And it’s easy to understand why the trend has become so popular.
A healthy work-life balance can improve our emotional health, leaving us feeling more refreshed and able to conquer big business tasks.
And if we’re travelling far to fulfil our professional duties, it’s even more necessary to feel well-prepared and rested after our flight.
For many young business travellers, this is a key demand – and luckily, several airline firms have begun to meet it.
Business travel is a critical part of many people’s jobs – so why shouldn’t it be as enjoyable as possible? Client demands are helping to shape this type of air journey for the better. How will they influence your flying experience?
