United Airlines Blocks AI Agents From Booking Flights Citing Privacy and Regulatory Risks

United Airlines has stated that it will not allow personal AI assistants to complete ticket bookings on its platform. The company cited privacy and regulatory concerns, noting that AI agents could expose customer information or make unintended purchases, and potentially skirt federal rules requiring airlines to have customers attest that their bags do not contain explosives.

According to The Wall Street Journal, United CEO Scott Kirby said at an event on Tuesday, "To be honest, I don't want to create another middleman." While agents can still show users United flights, they cannot execute the transaction on their behalf. This decision may limit the potential usefulness of newer personal AI assistants like Meta's Muse and OpenAI's Dots.

United is not alone in restricting unauthorized AI agents. eBay appears to have blocked agents from browsing its site, and several major banks have also placed restrictions on them. United suggested it could reconsider its decision based on future advancements, but emphasized the need to establish protections for travelers first.