United Airlines blocks AI agents from booking flights
United Airlines will restrict AI assistants from booking flights and managing reservations on users' behalf, both on its own website and app and through travel agencies and aggregators. The airline cites data security, privacy and regulatory concerns, saying shared account credentials could expose personal information or lead to unintended purchases and misuse of MileagePlus miles. United says automated tools could also conflict with FAA and DOT rules, since check-in requires a human to confirm bags contain no prohibited items. United CEO Scott Kirby reportedly said he does not want to add another middleman. The airline says it has seen few attempts to book flights through AI agents.
Key facts
- Amazon has blocked Meta's AI agent Muse, while Walmart has partnered with it.
- Bank of America warned customers last week not to share passwords with AI assistants.
- Uber reported AI agents handled 500 Uber Eats orders and four rides out of 320 million trips and deliveries during Halloween week.
- Southwest created a plugin that lets users book flights with ChatGPT.
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Why it matters
Restrictions on AI booking tools could shape how travelers and third-party platforms access airline services.
What changed
First published from CNA, Engadget, The Independent, The Verge and TechCrunch