by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 1:20 PM ET, Mon January 29, 2024
Artificial intelligence is expected to transform the travel and tourism industry, according to a new report from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Microsoft, the first in a series about the subject.
WTTC believes that AI can help promote sustainability and customer experiences, including personalized recommendations, marketing strategies and interactions between travelers and AI-powered chatbots.
The report also found that the industry has a lack of AI-skilled workers, AI infrastructure and the absence of a formal ‘AI strategy’ in business plans, which could make the industry lag in terms of AI’s adoption.
WTTC also found that while the new technology is disruptive, it will also offer new opportunities. AI has been a hot topic in industries across the board, and across the world. Just this past December, TravelPulse covered the news that Delta Airlines is experimenting with AI to determine pricing, while Cruise Planners, the travel advisor franchise, launched new AI-driven tools for travel advisors.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said: "As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Travel & Tourism, AI emerges as a catalyst for positive change,” said Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO. “The transformative capabilities highlighted in this report demonstrate that AI is not just a technological advancement, it is a strategic tool that can personalize the customer experience, drive sustainable improvements, and create real time pricing models.”
While many are frightened of AI’s capabilities to do illegal harm or even eliminate people’s jobs, the travel industry is slowly starting to utilize it in a variety of ways, and it remains to be seen just how far it will be implemented within the industry.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
