United Airlines Restricts Unauthorized AI Agents From Booking and Managing Trips
The airline says the restrictions cover its website, app and indirect booking channels; general trip research remains allowed.
United Airlines is restricting unauthorized third-party AI agents from searching, booking and managing travel through its website, app and indirect booking channels, the airline announced Wednesday.
United said the changes cover access through travel agencies and aggregators as well as its own digital platforms. The airline is updating its booking, ticketing and distribution policies as it works to limit unauthorized automated activity.
The company cited concerns about travelers sharing sensitive account information and allowing tools to make purchases, change bookings or use MileagePlus miles. It also said automated check-in could bypass important safety acknowledgments.
Customers can still use AI for general trip research and planning, provided the tool does not access United's website or app. Assistive technology for travelers with disabilities is not affected, according to the airline's Digital Trust Center.
United says giving an AI assistant permission does not mean the airline will permit that assistant to transact with United. Travel agencies may use their own third-party AI tools only with the airline's permission.
Bookings made by third-party AI agents before November 11, 2026 will not be canceled because of the policy, United said. It advises customers to check that earlier reservations were booked and ticketed correctly.