United Airlines is set to partner with Apple on the redevelopment of the airline's terminal at San Francisco International Airport. The two United States-based companies are collaborating on the project following their strong history together.

Strategic partnership

Bloomberg reports that discussions about the revamp have only just begun between the pair. However, United executive vice president Linda Jojo has revealed that Apple has already been on-site at the Californian hub.

“The Apple team in San Francisco has been in our baggage hold areas, customer service and the lobbies,” Jojo shared.

The executive didn't want to give too much away about the details as the companies continue to iron out specifics regarding the work. Although, due to sections of the terminal looking dated right now, Apple is likely to use its innovation for a redesign.

United Airlines at SFO
United sounds excited about its partnership with Apple. Photo: Raimond Spekking via Wikimedia Commons

A creative touch

The tech firm is famed for its creativity and sleekness, something from which the airport terminal could benefit. Terminal 3, which was formally dubbed the North Terminal, is the fifth-largest hub for United. In addition, it is the airline's primary transpacific gateway.

This building was opened 48 years ago in 1971. Therefore, now is the perfect time for a restructure, before it celebrates is 50th birthday.

Additionally, earlier this year, United shared that Apple spends $150 million annually with the airline.Among many other regular flights, this figure includes 50 business seat tickets per day from San Francisco to Shanghai. This service alone contributes $35 million a year to Apple's expenses.

International Terminal of San Francisco International Airport
San Francisco International Airport serves up to 55.8 million passengers per year. United has served a huge segment of these travelers. Photo: Constantine Kulikovsky via Wikimedia Commons

Other revamps

United isn't the only stakeholder at San Francisco Airport that has been working on redevelopment. Earlier this month, the airport revised its gate numbering system. This $9 million task was implemented by the airport in a strategic move. Moreover, officials believe that the new alphanumeric gate numbering system will help passengers find their way through the building more easily.

We have to wait to see how much of an influence Apple has on the redesign. Nonetheless, by consulting this technological powerhouse, United may be looking to implement new smart devices and wireless systems for crew and passengers alike. The two groups could also be considering the development of IoT technology at the site.

United has also had a busy few days of announcements in regards to redesigns on its aircraft. This weekend, it shared that it is set to roll out Polaris business seating on its Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft. Along with this, it announced that it will retrofit aircraft with larger overhead storage bins to reduce congestion.

Simple Flying reached out to United for comment but didn't hear back before the publication of this article. We will update this piece with any further announcements.

What do you think of United's partnership with Apple? Let us know what your thoughts are in the comment section.