Technology start up Air Media Solutions has launched its new Flio app to provide travelers with easy wi-fi access, travel information and exclusive retail offers at airports around the world.
The new app is being billed as a one-stop shop for all things airport related and was developed by entrepreneurs Stephan Uhrenbacher, Brian Collie, Andy Watson and Ken Knoll.
One of Flio’s key features is its ability to give users instant, one-click access to airport wi-fi by removing the step of entering personal details. The app supports more than 30 free airport wi-fi networks at launch, with plans to expand to 200 airports within the next three months.
Flio also offers travelers tips and insights to help make the most of their time at the airport, including up-to-the-minute airport information and special discounts for key retailers and restaurants. Global travel search site Skyscanner will serve as Flio’s launch co-marketing sponsor and will introduce the app to its 40 million monthly visitors.
Uhrenbacher, CEO of Flio, said, “As a frequent flyer, I wanted something to take the stress out of my time at the airport and help me locate the information and services I cared about. I got in touch last year with Brian Collie (ex-BAA Group retail director and chairman of World Duty Free) who had also been chairman at lastminute.com when I was there, and Brian and I set about looking at the app opportunity from the perspective of airports, retailers, caterers, brands and, most importantly, travelers.
“Flio was born out of the desire to make the entire airport experience better, and in developing the app, we considered travelers’ needs from the moment they set foot in the airport.”
Ben Deller, head of UK marketing and global digital, World Duty Free, said, “World Duty Free serves millions of passengers every year as they pass through our airport stores, and we are constantly looking for innovative ways to engage with both new and existing customers. We wanted to partner with Flio because the app, like our business, is global, and their mobile platform will allow us to push tailored offers in real-time to flyers. Flio will help us drive incremental footfall to our airport-based stores in the UK and around the world.”