Suzanne Neufang
CEO, Global Business Travel Association
From automation to personalisation, digital tools are helping teams simplify operations, adapt to change and make smarter business travel decisions.
Business travel is being redefined by innovation. With increased scrutiny on budgets and the value of each trip, organisations are turning to technology to build travel programmes that focus on productivity, responsibility and traveller needs.
Tech trending in business travel
According to a GBTA poll, new technologies are a key driver of industry growth and adaptation. When asked which factors are most important to the advancement of business travel, European professionals were more likely than their regional industry peers to cite new technologies and trends, ranking it as their top response.
Artificial intelligence
AI is already enhancing many stages of the business travel experience. Almost one in three global travel buyers expects to integrate AI into their travel programmes this year. From personalised booking options to real-time disruption management, AI is helping organisations unlock new efficiencies while also delivering a more seamless experience for travellers.
Advancements in digital solutions,
such as biometric verification, e-visas
and automated passport control,
improve the travel experience.
Sustainable travel
Innovation is also transforming how companies manage employee travel programmes and how travellers make eco-friendly choices. GBTA research shows that 76% of travel buyers have or plan to incorporate sustainability objectives in their travel policies. Advancements in digital solutions, such as biometric verification, e-visas and automated passport control, improve the travel experience while minimising environmental impact. Additionally, technology-enabled travel management platforms allow companies to optimise travel routes based on emissions data, designate sustainability-minded hotels and prioritise airlines, airports and even flights that use sustainable aviation fuels.
Real-time duty of care
As risk and uncertainty remain a feature of the global landscape, duty of care has never been more critical. Many companies are turning to digital platforms that offer real-time tracking, automated alerts and location visibility. These innovations help organisations stay connected to travelling employees, respond quickly when disruptions happen or plans change and reinforce their commitment to employee safety and wellbeing.
Looking ahead
Organisations are investing in solutions that enable better decision-making, deliver more value per trip and support a positive travel experience. Innovation is equipping travel teams with the tools they need to act faster, adapt policies and strengthen the value of business travel as a whole. With the right technology and partnerships in place, companies can create travel programmes that are more strategic, responsive and ready for what comes next — all while supporting greater organisational resilience in a constantly evolving marketplace.
