notitur.com October 8, 2026
Artificial Intelligence1 min read

Autonomous AI is now buying flights: travel distribution entered a new era

JSBy Joan SanzCurated by Joan Sanz. · July 4, 2026 · Follow on LinkedIn
Voice reading · ~1 min

A few years ago it was unthinkable. Today it's reality: eDreams ODIGEO and Visa have opened their platforms to AI agents that autonomously execute travel reservations. The OTA uses Visa protocols called Trusted Agent and Agentic Directory to ensure only verified and secure AI executes transactions. While eDreams processes over 6 billion daily predictions for its 8 million Prime subscribers, it now must trust machines that act without human intervention in real time.

This is not a cosmetic feature. It's the beginning of agentic commerce applied to travel. When corporate AI, an app, or a virtual assistant makes independent purchase decisions, it will need direct access to booking systems. eDreams understands that whoever doesn't prepare now will become a second-tier distributor. The eDreams platform facilitates this transition because it already works with massive data and predictions. For the rest of OTAs and suppliers, the question is urgent: are we ready for a faceless intermediary negotiating our inventory?

Quick questions

What exactly are AI agents that book flights autonomously?
They are autonomous artificial intelligence programs that can execute purchases without human intervention, using Visa's secure protocols. Instead of a human clicking, the machine analyzes options, chooses, and pays directly on platforms like eDreams.
How does Visa verify the AI is safe and not fraudulent?
It uses two protocols: Trusted Agent (validates agent identity) and Agentic Directory (registry of certified AI). Only registered and verified machines can execute transactions, just like an authenticated traveler.
How many eDreams users are there and what's the real volume?
eDreams has 8 million Prime subscribers and processes over 6 billion daily predictions, positioning it as robust infrastructure to scale these AI-driven operations.
What about other OTAs and airlines? Do they need to do this too?
Not mandatory today, but strategically urgent. As agentic commerce grows, closed platforms will lose volume. Those who don't open secure APIs for AI will be left out of the new distribution game.
Does this mean travel agents disappear?
Not immediately. But the game changes: agents become corporate AI configurators, not click intermediaries. Demand for traditional skills drops, demand for systems expertise rises.

Was this article useful?

Enjoyed this? Share Notitur

X LinkedIn WhatsApp

The daily brief

Notitur in your inbox

One sharp travel-industry brief a day. Free.

Editorial content by Notitur. It may contain errors. Verify anything important with the original source.

This article may mention third-party products, companies or services for informational purposes. Notitur does not endorse them and is not responsible for them or for what they offer. Editorial content curated by the Notitur team.

Produced with AI assistance and editorial review.

← Back to Notitur

Notitur is an independent digest. It is not the official site of any brand mentioned. Content is editorial and produced with AI assistance and editorial review, and may contain errors. Verify anything important with the original source. This is not financial, legal or investment advice. Some links or blocks may be sponsored or affiliate. Trademarks belong to their owners. You can unsubscribe at any time with one click, and you can request access or deletion of your data at notitur.com/contact.

⚙ Admin