The Players, Places, and Projects Moving the Industry into the Future
21 September 2023
What constitutes a Bright Idea? Since launching this franchise last September, the iBestTravel team has continued to revisit and refine the concept, digging into what makes an idea worth celebrating. Is it about building something never done before or finding a way to scale a project for outsized impact? Perhaps it’s about pushing an existing concept in an unexpected direction or reframing our understanding of the world of travel. In truth, it’s all of the above.
This list honors ideas that thoughtfully tackle travel’s most pressing issues — innovations spanning tech, design, sustainability, community, inclusion, accessibility, and conservation. From airports pursuing universal design to hotel programs that keep local craft traditions alive, these innovators are transforming travel, one bright idea at a time.
AIR TRAVEL
Portland International Airport | 📐 🌱
The idea: When it opens in 2025, Portland International Airport’s (PDX) new main terminal will be the largest locally sourced timber project of its kind, with wood sourced through close partnerships with regional Indigenous communities.
Why it matters: Timber has the lowest embodied carbon impact of any mainstream construction material. This airport renovation showcases how the travel sector can lead in equitable sourcing and sustainability.
How it works: Imagine applying the farm-to-table concept to sourcing materials for this historic airport renovation. PDX kicked off its $2 billion renovation with a locavore model for sourcing timber, sourcing 2.6 million board feet from within a 300-mile radius, notably from Yakama Nation and other Indigenous tribes, bolstering the project’s sustainability credentials.
Alaska Airlines | 🌱 🚀
The idea: Alaska Airlines is working on a hydrogen-electric propulsion system that aims for zero carbon emissions in flight technology.
Why it matters: Zero-emission flights can significantly reduce the aviation industry’s negative impact on air quality.
How it works: Collaborating with ZeroAvia, Alaska Airlines plans to develop a hydrogen-electric powertrain capable of flying a regional aircraft, aiming to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Hawaiian Airlines | 🌱 🤝
The idea: Hawaiian Airlines is focusing on innovative collaborations to usher in the next generation of aviation maintenance technicians through partnerships with local education institutions.
Why it matters: The airline’s Apprenticeship Program is creating pathways to economic opportunity for local communities.
How it works: Apprentices receive training at Honolulu Community College while gaining hands-on experience working part-time at Hawaiian Airlines’ maintenance hangar.
Kansas City International Airport | 🚀 📐 🤝
The idea: Kansas City International Airport (MCI) unveiled a $1.5 billion terminal with a focus on inclusivity.
Why it matters: The upgraded terminal reflects what airports should look like in today’s world, with inclusive features aimed at enhancing the experience for all travelers.
How it works: The terminal introduces innovative amenities like Clear kiosks and visual paging boards to assist travelers with disabilities, alongside an immersive air travel experience simulation room.
Minneapolis – Saint Paul International Airport | 🚀 ♿ 🤝
The idea: Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), Minneapolis Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) translates gate announcements and displays them in real-time for travelers with hearing impairments.
Why it matters: Timely flight updates are often announced over loudspeakers, excluding some individuals from receiving vital information.
How it works: MSP became the first US airport to pilot talk-to-text technology at airline gates, capturing announcements to display on screens for those who cannot hear them, with plans for further rollout.
CRUISE
Hyke | 🚀 🌱
The idea: Norwegian firm Hyke is pioneering electrified ferries to reduce emissions in the maritime sector.
Why it matters: The international maritime sector contributes significantly to global emissions; electrification can improve overall planetary and human health.
How it works: Hyke’s 50-passenger ferries, powered by solar panels and batteries, aim for emissions-free maritime transport, enhancing urban connectivity.
DESTINATIONS
Hong Kong | 👨👨👧👦 📐
The idea: Transforming pocket parks into creative spaces through collaboration with local architects to reflect cultural heritage.
Why it matters: As urban areas grow, maximizing the benefits of public spaces becomes crucial for community well-being.
How it works: Revitalized parks across Hong Kong now feature unique designs and vibrant community-focused elements, with plans for further developments.
Saudi Arabia | 📐🌱 👨👨👧👦
The idea: Diriyah aims to create a sustainable, human-centric destination rooted in history while showcasing local vernacular architecture.
Why it matters: This development represents a shift toward sustainable urban planning in the region.
How it works: Utilizing traditional building methods and designs, Diriyah aims for a blend of history and modern sustainability, including numerous hotels and dining venues.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida | 🤝
The idea: Fort Lauderdale emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility in its marketing and tourism initiatives.
Why it matters: Bridging the gap between tourism and community engagement can make destinations more welcoming for all.
How it works: The city’s campaign showcases a diverse range of attractions that cater to all visitors, including accessible venues and community-focused experiences.
HOTELS
Grootbos | 🦏
The idea: South Africa’s Grootbos Private Nature Reserve engages guests in learning about biodiversity through insect-focused safaris.
Why it matters: Insect diversity is crucial for ecosystem balance.
How it works: Guests partake in scientific research while enjoying exhibitions and field trips centered on the ecological role of insects.
JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge | 🌱 👨👨👧👦
The idea: Launching a training program to empower local girls and women through skills development in hospitality services.
Why it matters: Promoting gender equality can lead to stronger community leadership and economic growth.
How it works: The lodge invests in apprenticeships, fostering professional growth and career opportunities within the hospitality sector.
ORGANISATIONS
ReShark | 🦏
The idea: An initiative to reinforce juvenile leopard shark populations through a collaborative conservation effort.
Why it matters: Protecting shark populations is vital for maintaining healthy marine ecosystems.
How it works: This project collaborates with multiple organizations to successfully breed and release sharks into the wild.
IGLTA | 🤝
The idea: A new hotel-accreditation system by the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association ensures welcoming environments for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Why it matters: Comprehensive accreditation addresses inclusivity beyond performative gestures.
How it works: The certification process assesses hotels on various inclusivity criteria, with ongoing support to enhance their LGBTQ+ friendliness.
Google | 🚀 🌱
The idea: Google has developed search tools to facilitate the discovery of sustainable travel options.
Why it matters: As a leading search engine, Google’s initiatives can significantly influence traveler habits and promote eco-friendly choices.
How it works: Features like low-emission filters on flights and eco-certified hotel labels make it easier for users to make sustainable choices while planning their travel.
