To better meet customer expectations in the post-COVID world, budget carrier Scoot will be launching a new inflight portal to serve as a one-stop shop for all passenger needs while in the air.

Launching in phases from this month, ScootHub will enable customers will to order food and beverages from Scoot Café, shop for duty-free items from KrisShop, play games, browse inspirational travel content and more, all from the convenience of their own device.

ScootHub, which can be easily accessed from customers’ own mobile devices by scanning a QR code on the seatback or by connecting to the ‘ScootHub’ network, will be the first of its kind in the region to offer such diverse functionalities, according to the Singapore Airlines subsidiary.

The airline said the transition from physical to digital inflight menus, duty-free catalogues and magazines will give passengers peace of mind about their health and safety on board by reducing surface contact and physical interactions with crew.

Scoot said the reduced interaction between passengers and crew will also allow the airline to resume some inflight services, such as buy-on-board food, which had been temporarily suspended.

In ScootHub’s second phase, from April 2021, customers will be able to book ground activities and attractions while inflight.

They will also be able to sync their KrisFlyer membership to earn or redeem miles when they purchase items via KrisShop or activities and attractions via Pelago, the SIA Group’s new platform for destination inspiration and content.

Scoot has a roadmap of additional features to be deployed in subsequent phases.

The airline’s CEO, Campbell Wilson, said: “We know that health and safety are top of customers’ minds these days, and that regulatory requirements have changed the inflight experience.

“ScootHub enables us to resume valued services in a safe, low-touch manner, improving customers’ experiences and – through reduction in paper-based collaterals – improving our environmental sustainability too.

“Our investment in this portal is part of Scoot’s comprehensive digitalisation program, both internal and external, which also includes health-focused initiatives such as touchless check-in kiosks and bag-drop facilities, enhanced online and mobile check-in capabilities, and real-time information on travel requirements.”