Singapore Airlines to launch blockchain-based loyalty digital wallet

This is part of its KrisFlyer frequent-flyer programme

Singapore Airlines (SIA) is packaging its airline loyalty programme KrisFlyer into a digital wallet, powered by blockchain technology.

The KrisFlyer app will allow members to use ‘digital KrisFlyer miles’ for point-of-sale transactions at participating retail merchants.

SIA has already carried out a proof-of-concept exercise with KPMG Digital Village and Microsoft. It will continue to sign up retail merchant partners in Singapore and expects to roll out the wallet in six months.

“This groundbreaking development in which we will be using blockchain technology to ‘digitalise’ KrisFlyer miles is a demonstration of the investment we are making to significantly enhance the digital side of our business for the benefit of our customers,” said SIA CEO Goh Choon Phong, in an official press statement.

“It is in line with our recently unveiled Digital Innovation Blueprint, under which we aim to be the world’s leading digital airline.”

SIA’s Digital Innovation Blueprint roadmap also involves the development of tech solutions that will help the airline make its aircraft maintenance and customer service more efficient, as well as reduce aircraft delays, for example.

For this endeavour, SIA has partnered with local research agencies such as A*Star, and has also established a Digital Innovation Lab.

Besides SIA, other prominent airline carriers such as Air France and Russian airline S7 are exploring blockchain technology to improve its service.

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Image Credit: boarding1now / 123RF Stock Photo