The Group IAGthrough its gas pedal Hangar 51supports an innovative start-up specializing in the auctioning of upgrades for travelers. This initiative enables passengers to bid for seats in Business classThis solution is part of a wider strategy to personalize and enhance the customer experience, while optimizing the use of available seats. This solution is part of a wider strategy to personalize and enhance the customer experience, while optimizing the use of available seats on board.
The IAG Group, parent company of British Airways and Iberiarecently invested in a promising French start-up. This new company, which specializes in the auctioning of upgrades for travelers, aims to make air travel more accessible for passengers by offering them the opportunity to upgrade their seats via an auction system. This initiative is supported by the Hangar 51 of IAG, which is constantly looking for ways to optimize the passenger experience.
The Upgrade Auction Concept
The Upgrade Auction allows passengers to bid for a seat in a higher class, typically from Economy to Business or First. This system not only offers an opportunity to enhance the travel experience, but also enables airlines to maximize revenues by filling vacant upper-class seats.
Backed by IAG, this start-up has taken advantage of technological advances to create a user-friendly interface enabling passengers to make pre-flight bids. Up to five hours before flight closure, passengers can bid to become the winner of a Business upgrade auction.
IAG support through Hangar 51
IAG, always on the lookout for innovations to improve the passenger experience, has chosen to support this start-up via its acceleration program. Hangar 51. This program is designed to identify and promote innovative companies that can bring new and effective solutions to the air transport sector. The main objective is to collaborate with start-ups and scale-ups in strategic areas to develop products and services that can transform the market.
By investing in this company, IAG is demonstrating its commitment to modernizing the airline industry by using cutting-edge technologies and developing services that increase passenger satisfaction.
Impact on the Market and Passenger Experience
The introduction of the upgrade auction by this innovative start-up could transform the way passengers think about buying airline tickets. Traditionally, upgrades have been seen as a luxury reserved for a minority, but with this new system, they become more accessible and attractive to a wider range of travelers.
Companies like Palombiana already demonstrate how artificial intelligence can personalize group travel, and this new start-up aims to reach such heights by revolutionizing access to better travel classes. In short, this initiative could not only democratize access to higher classes, but also increase customer satisfaction and loyalty to IAG airlines.
Response from the public and airlines
IAG's support for this start-up has been welcomed by industry professionals. Airlines see the opportunity to optimize their cabin capacity while offering better service to passengers. It's a win-win situation, with airlines increasing their revenues and passengers benefiting from an enhanced experience.
This new feature is also generating enthusiasm among frequent flyers, who see it as a chance to improve their travel experience without necessarily paying the high prices initially associated with Business or First class tickets. To find out more about how to optimize their flights, travelers can consult tips such as those suggested for maximizing Delta SkyMiles.
With projects and investments such as these, IAG continues to assert its position as a leading innovator in the air transport sector, proving once again that the future of travel lies in technology and the continuous improvement of passenger services.

The IAG Group, parent company of British Airways and Iberia, is backing an innovative start-up specializing in auctions for passenger upgrades. This initiative promises to transform the flying experience, making upgrades accessible to a wider audience through an intuitive and transparent auction platform.
Upgrade Auctions
Start-up Palombiana uses artificial intelligence to personalize upgrade bids. Passengers can thus improve their trip at the last minute by bidding on seats in Business classup to five hours before flight closure. This system makes the luxury of upgrading more affordable and flexible.
Partnership with IAG
IAG, through its Hangar 51 gas pedal, is looking for innovators capable of driving change in the airline industry. By teaming up with Palombiana, IAG is underlining its commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies to improve customer services.
Impact on the Travel Experience
This partnership with Palombiana aims to offer a more pleasant and personalized flying experience. By integrating this auction system, IAG hopes to attract new customers while retaining existing ones through superior services. This collaboration illustrates the Group's determination to remain at the forefront of innovation in the air transport sector.
FAQ : IAG supports an innovative start-up specializing in the auctioning of upgrades for travellers
What is IAG?
IAG is the group that owns British Airways and Iberia. It plays an important role in the air transport sector, supporting innovation and new initiatives.
Which start-up is supported by IAG?
The start-up in question specializes in the auctioning of upgrades for travelers. It offers an innovative platform that enables passengers to bid for upgraded seats.
How does the upgrade auction work?
Passengers can participate in an online auction before their flight. They can bid an amount they are willing to pay for an upgrade. The auction closes at a set time, and the best bids are selected for upgrades.
Why is IAG supporting this start-up?
IAG sees this initiative as an opportunity to boost the travel experience for its passengers, while optimizing the load factor of its premium-class flights. This support is part of a strategy of innovation and strategic partnership with promising start-ups through programs such as the Hangar 51 gas pedal.
What are the advantages of this auction for travelers?
Travelers have the opportunity to access upgrades at prices potentially lower than standard fares. What's more, this offers flexibility and a chance to enhance their travel comfort in a fun and competitive way.
When and where can I take part in an upgrade auction?
Auctions can be held online up to a few hours before flight departure. Specific details and dedicated platforms are usually provided at the time of ticket purchase or via the portals of the airlines involved.
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