Melbourne tech entrepreneur Constantine Frantzeskos has breathed new life into the iconic Ansett Airlines brand, transforming it into The Ansett Travel Platform, an AI-driven travel concierge service.
Frantzeskos, a digital marketing and AI specialist, noticed the airline’s trademark had lapsed and saw an opportunity to relaunch the brand, not as an airline, but as a personalised travel platform.
“Over the last 12 to 14 years, I’ve compiled a whole series of great digital innovations… and realised the trademark had lapsed,” Frantzeskos told 9News.
The platform uses AI to create traveller profiles, design ideal itineraries, and find the best deals, offering flights at wholesale prices.
Since its launch last month, the service has attracted strong interest, with many signing up for the $99 VIP experience.
Frantzeskos said the platform allows personalised trips without a traditional travel agent: “Because I don’t have gigantic overheads… I can pass on those savings to travellers. It just works for you 24-7 without a complaint.”
The revival has also sparked nostalgia for former Ansett customers and staff.
“Some ex-Ansett employees said seeing the name brought tears to their eyes,” Frantzeskos said, adding that Will Richards, grandson of founder Sir Reginald Ansett, expressed his delight at the relaunch.
Frantzeskos’ venture taps into the growing role of AI in travel, with recent data showing a 73 per cent surge in AI use among Australian travellers over the past year.
While not returning to the skies just yet, Frantzeskos said the focus is on delivering a high-quality travel experience, leaving future possibilities open: “The sky’s the limit.”
Source: 9News.
