Travel Search Changes, AI-Travel Brand Deals and Loyalty Program Lessons

At Skift’s Megatrends event, travel executives discussed the rising impact of AI on the industry, with Thomas Reiner of Altimeter Capital warning that AI-driven personal assistants could disrupt online travel agencies, metasearch engines, and traditional SEO. Meanwhile, Kayak CEO Steve Hafner anticipates that a commercial agreement between an AI engine and a major travel brand could arrive by 2025, potentially reshaping consumer booking habits. Finally, British Airways’ controversial switch to a revenue-based loyalty program underscores the importance of transparent communication and planning when making significant changes that affect frequent travelers.

• Online travel agencies and metasearch engines are in trouble due to the rise of AI-generated search
• The first commercial agreement between an AI engine and a major travel brand
• British Airways recently announced several controversial changes to its loyalty program

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