Delta Air Lines is exploring how it can evolve from a traditional carrier into a full-service travel facilitator, according to Glen Hauenstein, the airline’s president.
In an interview for an upcoming podcast with Ric Elias, CEO of Red Ventures, Hauenstein said Delta aims to transform from an airline into a broader transportation company by 2025.
“Today, we primarily sell airline tickets,” Hauenstein explained. “What we really want to offer is the complete journey. Travelers want to leave their home or office and arrive at a specific hotel, venue, or other destination. We need to integrate all of that into the purchase experience.”
Hauenstein described a future where Delta handles baggage door to door, removing that burden from passengers’ travel experience.
“When you reach your destination,” he said, “we want your luggage to connect with your onward transportation and arrive at your hotel or place of residence. If you prefer to use a particular rideshare service or hotel brand, we should know that. With that information, we can deliver a curated, end-to-end experience. That’s the direction we’re headed.”