British Airways Tracks Flyers’ Emotions with Hi-Tech Blanket

In an effort to validate its in-flight innovations, British Airways recently conducted a live experiment on flyers traveling overnight between New York and London.

The airline asked passengers located in different cabins to wear a headset and blanket that would relay their emotions with neurosensor technology. Information about flyers’ mood was relayed via Bluetooth to fiber optics woven into a blanket.

When the flyer feels anxious or stressed, the blanket turns red. When the flyer is calm and relaxed, the blanket is blue.

“Initially, there are fluctuations as passengers settle in. But there is a noticeable change in passengers’ mood as they enjoy food and drink. You can also see the reactions to different types of films and entertainment,” the below video explains.

British Airways has been at the forefront of investigating flyers’ emotions and in-flight habits. Earlier this year the airline identified the seven emotional phases of flying from control to conviviality.