For some travel agents, AI isn't a threat - it's a business tool

Travel agents, once central to trip planning, have faced disruptions from online booking platforms. The latest shift involves the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) in travel planning. While some agents view AI as a threat, others, like Athena Livadas of Páme Travel, embrace it as a tool that enhances their capabilities. Livadas reports a 40% growth in her business linked to AI usage, allowing her to streamline tasks and focus on client outreach. Digital travel agency Fora also integrates AI into its operations, highlighting its growing presence in the industry.

"Most travel advisors don't see the need, or even get offended, when AI is brought up in the context of travel planning. But I couldn't disagree more. It's not replacing us. It's a tool that gives advisors super powers to deliver even more value."

"When I look at a six-month period before and after I started using AI, my business has grown about 40%. Of course there are other factors involved, but the time AI saves me has definitely been a contributing reason."

Read at Business Insider