Japanese airline All Nippon Airways (ANA) and its subsidiary virtual platform, ANA NEO, have unveiled their pioneering plans to introduce an exclusive non-fungible token (NFT) marketplace. This innovative platform, called the “ANA GranWhale NFT MarketPlace,” marks a remarkable first in the airline industry, catering specifically to aeronautics-themed digital collectibles.
JUST IN: 🇯🇵 Japan’s largest airline ANA launches #NFT marketplace.
— Coingraph | News (@CoingraphNews) May 30, 2023
First Offering: Captivating Aerial Photograph NFT
The inaugural item on the ANA GranWhale NFT MarketPlace will be an NFT conversion of an awe-inspiring photograph captured by acclaimed aerial photographer Luke Ozawa. A remarkable aspect of this offering is that one of the photographs will be accompanied by the original positive film used during its development. The starting price for this exceptional NFT, set for auction, has been established at 100,000 yen (approximately $714).
Upcoming Release: NFT Conversion of the First Boeing 787
Following the initial drop, the second release is scheduled for June 7th and will showcase an NFT conversion of the first Boeing 787. A total of 1,574 items will be made available, with 787 items for each of the two types. Each NFT from this unique collection will be priced at 7,870 yen (approximately $56).
Partnerships and Future Expansion
ANA has already joined forces with four companies to offer their NFTs on the marketplace, and further expansion of the product lineup is planned for the future. This collaboration signals ANA’s commitment to explore the possibilities offered by NFTs within the airline industry.
Web3 Movement and Airline Industry Adoption
While ANA spearheads the concept of an NFT marketplace within the airline industry, it is noteworthy that other airlines have embraced the Web3 movement. In March 2023, Flybondi partnered with TravelX to introduce flight tickets as NFTs, enhancing flexibility, transparency, and security for travelers.
Additionally, TravelX collaborated with Kiu System Solutions in May 2022, allowing 73 airlines to tokenize and distribute their inventory as NFTs. Emirates Airline also announced in April 2022 its intention to venture into the metaverse and introduce its own collection of NFTs.
Exciting Prospects for Aviation Enthusiasts
With the launch of the ANA GranWhale NFT MarketPlace, aviation enthusiasts now have an exclusive platform to acquire aeronautics-themed digital collectibles. ANA’s foray into the NFT space represents a significant development within the airline industry, opening doors to a new realm of possibilities and captivating opportunities for both ANA and its passionate supporters.
