CarTrawler launches new B2B mobility platform to allow airlines to tap the growing mobility marketplace and ‘own’ the first and last mile of the passenger journey

12 July, 2019

CarTrawler has launched a global travel mobility platform, which allows airlines to offer the broadest range of travel solutions in-app so that they can "own the last mile" for their customers. The platform will offer customers convenient access to pre-booked and on-demand private transfers and taxis and will enable airlines to maximise revenues from the mobility as a service (MaaS) market, which is estimated to reach a value of USD1.75 trillion by 2030.

But what makes this new platform more exciting for airlines and corporate travellers alike is that CarTrawler has developed a mobility software development kit that allows customers to both earn and spend loyalty scheme parts as they ride on transfers to and from the airport. The company says this is an additional "unique customer value proposition" that airlines can offer its regular travellers.

An increasing number of airlines are incorporating mobility options within the booking process, but numbers remains fairly low and it remains mainly focused on car rentals rather than transfer opportunities.

This new platform provides a one-stop-shop for travel needs to and from the airport. It provides access to both pre-booked and on-demand transportation to and from the airport from suppliers including Lyft, Cabify, Gett, Careem, MyTaxi and Grab as well as traditional shared bus, coach and rail options.

Aileen McCormack, chief commercial officer at CarTrawler, believes the platform will "revolutionise the travel sector," and adds: "Airlines can now connect the dots and instantly utilise this platform in-app, offering customers a superior booking experience and reflecting the reality that those who don't rent, ride."

"Airlines need to offer travel solutions that can exist alongside car rental - the ride-hailing market alone is estimated to reach a value of USD285 billion by 2030 and the overall MaaS market will grow by 25% over the next five years," she explains. However, currently CarTrawler says just 59 of the world's 473 airlines currently offer mobility services to customers.

"By owning the first and last mile, airlines can maximise revenues from this rapidly growing sector and future-proof their business. At the same time, they will be able to offer customers every possible travel option, strengthening brand loyalty as a result," adds Ms McCormack.

Research from global technology research and advisory company Technavio forecasts the MaaS could grow by USD 181.25 billion during 2019-2023, at a CAGR of over 35%. This is based on the adoption of MaaS services increasing among end-users with the expansion in modes of transport services.