The global travel industry stands at the brink of a transformative era driven by autonomous AI agents, according to a newly released report from Phocuswright, an industry research authority. 

Titled True Automated AI in Travel Is Coming, the report suggests that autonomous agents, AI-powered tools capable of independent task execution and learning, are poised to redefine travel planning, booking, and customer experience.

Norm Rose

“Autonomous AI agents are poised to reshape the travel landscape, automating tasks, personalising experiences, and potentially even negotiating on our behalf,” says Norm Rose, Senior Technology and Corporate Market Analyst, Phocuswright and co-author of the report.

“While this technology is still in its early stages, its potential to transform the industry is undeniable.  Travel companies need to understand the implications of autonomous agents and prepare for a future where AI plays an increasingly central role,” Rose adds.

According to the report, autonomous agents are expected to streamline the booking process, reducing the need for manual research and simplifying complex travel planning.

Phocuswright highlights potential pressure on existing infrastructure, estimating that autonomous AI could increase the volume of shopping inquiries by up to 40 pc, demanding infrastructure optimisation and adaptation.

The rise of autonomous AI could lead to significant changes in employment within the travel industry, with an estimated 30 pc of current travel agent jobs potentially being automated over the next decade. The report, however, notes that AI could also enhance remaining roles, creating hybrid human-AI workflows.

The report adds that with multiple players, such as tech giants, online travel agencies (OTAs), and specialised travel companies, vying for dominance in AI-driven services, the “ownership” of autonomous agents remains an open and competitive landscape.

With data privacy and liability among top concerns, the report highlights the need for legal frameworks to evolve alongside autonomous technology to manage risk effectively.