United Restricts AI Agents From Booking Flights

United Airlines is updating its booking and ticketing policies to restrict personal artificial intelligence agents from making reservations through its digital platforms and through travel agencies and flight aggregators, citing security and regulatory concerns.

The airline said Wednesday that the restrictions will apply to third-party AI assistants acting on travelers’ behalf. It did not specify when the policy will take effect or how it will identify and block such agents. United said it would also update its distribution policies, and it plans to explain the restrictions through its Digital Trust Center.

United said giving an AI assistant account credentials could expose sensitive personal information and result in unintended purchases, changes to accounts or use of MileagePlus miles. The airline also raised concerns about AI tools performing check-in. It said travelers must personally confirm that their checked bags do not contain prohibited items, including explosives, and that automating this step could create regulatory risks.

The reported rationale reflects United’s assessment of security and aviation rules; the reports do not identify a specific regulatory determination...