The Post-COVID-19 Implications for Researching Digital Transformation in Aviation, Tourism, and Hospitality in Southeast Asian Events

Abstract

Over the past 45 years, the aviation, travel, and tourism industry has significantly evolved and developed equivalently in every region of the world map. The application of technology in the aviation and tourism industry and improved service innovation have made the industry grow, making it easier for travellers to enjoy their destination. The aim of this research is to explore the dynamics of aviation and the tourism events sector. Passenger data as published by the World Bank presents a sharp growth in each of the major markets. Increased numbers of people are flying both within and outside of a particular region. It is clear that travellers are also travelling to attend specific events. Recently, the pandemic has hit many industries hard, including the tourism sector. Travel and tourism activity in the current pandemic era and in the future is no longer the same as before the COVID-19 era. It is important to note that the central idea to attract more tourists to visit certain countries depends on how good their infrastructure and technology application is which may help to improve boosting tourism activities in the future. This chapter aims, firstly, to discuss the importance of technology in the aviation industry and tourism sector, focusing on tourism event activities; secondly to highlight the future technology applications for tourism events; and thirdly to explore the future research areas in technology and tourism events. This chapter closes by providing some recommendations on the research area and method for scholars to focus on.