AI agents that can book travel autonomously could threaten online travel agencies (OTAs) such as Booking Holdings and Expedia. Analysts warn the tools may steer customers directly to suppliers, intensify price competition and pressure commission rates. [1]
Airbnb may be better positioned to withstand the disruption. Its large inventory of exclusive listings is not available at lower prices on other sites, analysts say. [3, 9] The company also benefits from high direct traffic and in-app communication between hosts and guests, which can help keep customers within its ecosystem. [3, 9]
Expedia has partnered with Meta’s agent in response to AI developments; Airbnb has not. [3]