At a time when cryptocurrencies are still viewed by most as an investment target, Emirates Airlines and travel companies have already brought cryptocurrencies onboard. In July, Emirates and Crypto.com signed a partnership, planning to allow passengers to pay directly with tokens like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or USDT by 2026, becoming the first airline globally to incorporate crypto payments.
Currently, travelers wanting to pay for tickets with cryptocurrencies can consider using crypto booking travel platforms like Travala, Alternative Airlines, and Destinia.
Emirates in All Airlines
In the future, passengers can purchase tickets, upgrade seats, and buy duty-free goods using over 30 cryptocurrencies including BTC, ETH, CRO, USDT, and USDC. Besides Emirates, Dubai-listed low-cost carrier Air Arabia also accepts AE Coin, which is pegged to the dirham.
On the current ticket sales channels, blockchain booking platforms Travala, Alternative Airlines, and Destinia allow consumers to book over 650 airlines using mainstream cryptocurrencies like BTC, ETH, XRP, and Doge.
According to a Travala report, crypto payment booking volume grew 46% between 2023 and 2024, with demand shifting from rare customers to becoming mainstream.
How to Purchase Tickets
Consumers can complete crypto ticket purchases through two paths: "direct checkout" or "gift card".
Using Travala as an example: Select flight → Choose Crypto payment at checkout → Connect wallet → Scan QR code to complete transfer, and finally receive electronic ticket.
If choosing the gift card process, first purchase a digital card and then pay using the card's balance.
Based on actual testing, using Travala, payment options include pure "cryptocurrency payment" or choosing payment services like Binance Pay or Crypto.com.
If you're concerned about fees, compare on-chain transaction fees with credit card fees, and remember that international card usage involves cross-border transaction fees. Remember to keep the transaction ID and blockchain receipt to ensure potential ticket refunds or dispute resolution.
Emirates' 'Crypto Loyalty Program'
Emirates' ambitions extend beyond crypto payments, with current crypto plans including mileage exchange, decentralized travel insurance, and even automated visa verification through smart contracts.
Finextra estimates that 39% of Gen Z travelers will use cryptocurrencies for payments during their trips, and this digitally native generation will continue to drive mainstream adoption. When regulation, technology, and market conditions align, Emirates might become the world's first airline to handle "all travel needs on one chain".
