WTCE 2026 reveals the trends transforming onboard hospitality for airlines

With global passenger traffic rising 6.6% year-on-year[1] and 78% of passengers seeking greater convenience through their smartphones[2], airlines are under increased pressure to deliver onboard experiences that meet evolving passenger expectations. This signals strong demand for enhanced food, drink and hospitality offerings. The new WTCE 2026 report highlights the trends airlines should prioritise to stay aligned with these shifting and growing passenger behaviours.

The report draws on the show’s key themes, including the growing use of AI in onboard services, innovative beverage and food concepts, accessibility and sustainability. Each theme is brought to life at the event through insights from WTCE’s ambassadors, whose expertise helps airlines translate emerging trends into opportunities to enhance passenger loyalty, wellbeing and commercial performance.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the ambassadors directly, gaining insights into how these themes can be translate into practical solutions onboard. The ambassadors featured include:

Through their contributions, the ambassadors continue to play a key role at WTCE, offering actionable insights, highlighting emerging trends and helping airlines understand how innovation can shape the future of passenger experience.

The way passengers experience the cabin is changing faster than ever. Airlines are embracing innovation to create journeys that are safer, more inclusive and more meaningful. The ambassadors’ insights reveal how airlines can turn the cabin into a key driver for brand distinction and wellbeing.

The report reflects WTCE’s ongoing mission to support airlines and suppliers in delivering forward-thinking onboard solutions. It highlights emerging technologies, operational strategies and service innovations that will shape the next generation of inflight hospitality.

WTCE’s Event Manager, Shona Thomson, said: “The passenger experience is evolving from a service requirement into a tool for airlines to differentiate themselves and build loyalty. This report, featuring insights from our ambassadors, highlights how every aspect of onboard hospitality is essential in shaping the next era of travel. By sharing these insights, WTCE aims to support airlines and suppliers turn innovation into practical solutions that enhance every stage of the passenger journey. Attending WTCE provides a unique opportunity to see these trends firsthand, discover forward-thinking solutions and connect with the innovators shaping the future of inflight experience.” 

To view the full article,

‘Elevating Passenger Experience in the Next Era of Onboard Hospitality’, visit: https://www.worldtravelcateringexpo.com/en-gb/about/elevating-the-passenger-experience.html

For more information and to register for the World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo, taking place 14-16 April 2026 in Hamburg, visit https://www.worldtravelcateringexpo.com/reg