Travel companies are being urged to make more use of the social platform, pending the launch of the “Timeline”, an alternative to Facebook profiles that will aim to tell the user’s life story.

Facebook’s VP-partnerships and platform marketing executive, Dan Rose, recently spoke of “Timeline” and its benefits to market and sell travel companies products and services.

“I can tell the story of my life, and a big part of the story of my life is the places I’ve gone.  Many start ups are building companies with the idea that in the future travel will be social.” Mr Rose said.

Products, websites and applications can be integrated into the timeline.

According to Aviation Week, the better use of social media includes, friend suggestions, friend experiences and the extensive data they can provide on a person’s likes, preferences and behaviour for travel planning and selling.

Airlines already promote their products or advertise deals through their Facebook pages and other social media.

Malaysia Airlines has a booking application on Facebook that incorporates social media elements. Delta also has a booking platform, and Alaska Airlines allows users to be directed to their website to select and book flights.