Key Metrics
21.38
Heat Index-
Impact LevelMedium
-
Scope LevelGlobal
-
Last Update2025-08-17
Key Impacts
Positive Impacts (10)
Event Overview
Collaboration between established travel industry players and cryptocurrency platforms signals a shift toward integrating digital assets in traditional payment infrastructures. This development highlights the increasing acceptance of decentralized finances within mainstream services, reflecting a broader technological and economic convergence. It illustrates trends in payment innovation, cross-industry partnerships, and the challenge of adapting regulatory and operational frameworks for emerging digital economies.
Collect Records
Airlines and Crypto Platforms Partner to Integrate Blockchain Payments in Travel Industry
In 2024-2025, airlines including Emirates and AirBaltic partnered with crypto platforms such as Crypto.com and NOWPayments to integrate blockchain-based payment systems for the travel sector, targeting the $1.2 trillion global travel market. Emirates' collaboration with Crypto.com will allow passengers to pay for flights, upgrades, and inflight services using Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and stablecoins like USDT and USDC, with this integration set to launch in 2026. Travala.com, a crypto-native online travel agency, reported that 77% of its bookings in September 2024 were made using cryptocurrency, and these users spent 2.5 times more than traditional customers. Blockchain technology has led to a 70% reduction in transaction fees, enabled real-time settlements, and supported loyalty programs such as Singapore Airlines' KrisPay, which is valued at $1.5 trillion globally. Recent regulatory progress in Dubai and the U.S., along with stablecoin adoption by companies like Stripe and NOWPayments, is accelerating the role of cryptocurrency in cross-border travel finance.