You only have to glance around as you do your commute to and from work to see how new technology has entered our lives as people play with their mobile devices. Some will be checking email, the day ahead’s calendar or texting friends and loved ones but many will be viewing one of the growing number of social media channels that are among the fast growing brands across the globe.

In the past it was not uncommon in some countries for businessmen to have to queue for a poor telephone line when abroad if they wanted to contact the office or family or make use of the extortionately charged hotel in-room telephone. Now they can easily call or SMS from the airport to confirm they have arrived at the destination, even able to make use of free WiFi Internet access to tweet on Twitter or check-in on Facebook.

It is a changing landscape and we were delighted that Lee McCabe, Global Head of Travel at Facebook was able to attend to this year’s World Routes and make an interesting keynote address on the social media channel and how it is an important business tool for the aviation and travel businesses. The session also highlighted to delegates how to find and engage with the people that matter to them, everyday, everywhere, across desktop, mobile and tablet.

As McCabe noted, Travel is in Facebook’s DNA. More people share their travel milestones on Facebook, such as departing for a holiday or sharing a photo from their travels, than any other important events. In fact, more than 70 per cent of Facebook users update their status and/or share photos while on holiday. This is why travel companies are reaching out to Facebook to find the people that matter to them.

You can see our exclusive video interview with Lee McCabe, below.