Exclusive: Interview With CEO of CellPoint Digital

CellPoint Digital is a fintech leader in payment orchestration, with the solution to optimize digital payment transactions. From cards or alternative payment methods that accelerate the deployment of new payment options in the aviation industry.
 

In an exclusive interview with Kristian Gjerding, CEO of CellPoint Digital, we gained insight into how CellPoint Digital is structuring the payment ecosystem in the Aviation Industry and its growth globally.
 

This interview is lightly edited for length and clarity. 
 

The Journey of CellPoint Digital

What led you to Build CellPoint Digital? If you can, share your history with us.

Kristian Gjerding: "My love for travel began early in life, during my teenage years backpacking across Europe, and continued into my professional life as I traveled across Central and Eastern Europe, APAC, and the Middle East. During these travels, I saw firsthand how inefficient payment infrastructures were, especially for global markets. This insight sparked the creation of CellPoint Digital in 2007." 
 

He added: "In 2013, Emirates became our first aviation client, which marked a major milestone for us. The path wasn’t easy, but understanding the complexities of the airline industry, we’ve built solutions that harmonize technology with operational needs."

Revolutionizing Airline Payments

How does CellPoint Digital personalize its product toward airlines, and their passengers? And how flexible are airlines to work with?

Kristian Gjerding: "Airlines face a range of challenges, from managing global transactions to offering localized payment options for travelers. At CellPoint Digital, we’ve built our solutions to address these specific needs. Airlines are incredibly protective of their brand and are deeply committed to enhancing the passenger experience.
 

Our payment orchestration platform simplifies transactions by offering travelers the right payment method, in the right region, at the right time. This personalized payment experience not only boosts customer satisfaction but also helps airlines streamline their payment operations."

Partnerships

Recently, you’ve partnered with companies like PayU GPO. What do you want to achieve with such a partnership? 

Kristian Gjerding: "PayU GPO is a leader in alternative payment methods, especially in emerging markets like Central and Eastern Europe, Africa, and Latin America. Our partnership is aimed at empowering these regions by offering non-credit and non-cash payment options, which are essential for today’s global travelers.
 

By combining our expertise in payment orchestration with PayU’s localized offerings, we’re enabling airlines to cater to diverse traveler needs. This partnership helps airlines offer more payment options, particularly in regions where alternative payment methods (APMs) are dominant, further enhancing the passenger experience."

How do you see the evolution of digital payments shaping the future of air travel with Cryptocurrency?

Kristian Gjerding: “Cryptocurrency will become imperative for air travel in the future. A robust and diverse reality will allow individuals globally to become more flexible, bartering skill sets and capabilities for air travel tickets."

Added:  "But it will take time for everyone because there are trust issues. We can see this becoming a reality in the next fifteen to twenty years, when cryptocurrency could become a legitimate form of currency for air travel. As I mentioned earlier, harmony is of utmost importance. The legal structures around the world, technology, and the importance of human value can transform the dynamics of air travel in the future."

eVTOL and the Future of Urban Mobility

What are your thoughts on the future of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technology?
 

Kristian Gjerding: "eVTOLs are an exciting development in transportation. However, like all new technologies, their success will depend on careful planning and societal adoption. 

No one wants to live next to a congested highway, and urban planners need to take that into consideration. I believe a mix of flight and ground vehicles will improve the way we commute, but it will require a thoughtful balance between convenience and environmental impact."

Expanding into Emerging Markets

CellPoint Digital’s growth isn’t limited to developed economies. The company is expanding its presence in emerging markets, where it sees significant potential. With its multi-acquirer strategy and integration of localized payment methods, the company is helping airlines tap into regions where payment preferences vary greatly.
 

By partnering with local payment networks and offering region-specific solutions, CellPoint Digital is making it easier for airlines to bring on new customer bases, boost revenue, streamlining their global operations.
 

Conclusion         
 

CellPoint Digital’s journey from a niche fintech company to a global leader in payment orchestration is a testament to its resilience and ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the aviation industry. By simplifying payments, offering new revenue opportunities, and preparing for the future of digital transactions, the company is redefining how airlines manage payments and enhance the passenger experience.
 

As the company continues to innovate, we can expect to see new partnerships, expanded services, and further integration of cutting-edge technologies that will shape the future of aviation payments.