The cards will have the capability to allow up to ten airline's applications. Space will also be allowed for immigration data for some governments. The Airline Smart Card will provide frequent travelers with the ability to quickly identify themselves, board a flight, obtain a ticket, and pay for other products and services. It will also save airlines in ticket distribution costs, allow more passengers use of self-service facilities, and provide better means of identification. For airlines to survive in this highly competitive industry, they need to strive to become as cost efficient as possible.
Low fares continue to attract customers both in the corporate and private sectors.
The use of technology can be used to cut costs and provide convenience as shown with the electronic tickets and smart cards. In order to gain a competitive advantage in the industry, airlines should seek to gain access to emerging markets in Asia such as China. As these Asian countries become more involved in the global marketplace, the rate of economic growth will rise which will lead to a greater demand for air travel. If an airline is able to capture this market, the returns will be considerable. A method that could be utilized to capture this market would be the Smart Card.