- United Airlines has enacted a policy banning third-party AI assistants from booking or managing flights
- The ban applies to digital platforms from 11 November 2026
- Travellers can still use AI to search for and compare itineraries
- Checkout and check-in must be completed by a human
- United is the first major US carrier to enact such a restriction
United Airlines has enacted a policy banning third-party artificial intelligence assistants from booking, modifying or managing flights on its digital platforms starting 11 November 2026. Travellers can still use AI to search for and compare itineraries but checkout and check-in processes must be completed by a human. The updated policy and Contract of Carriage block autonomous agents.
The policy cites data security and privacy risks from sharing credentials with AI tools. Unintended purchases can occur when bots operate without oversight. Automated actions can conflict with FAA and DOT guidelines including the requirement for a human to verify hazardous material disclosures. Preserving direct relationships with customers is also a factor.
The ban spans the airline’s website, mobile app and connected third-party booking or aggregator channels. AI-managed reservations violate the updated Contract of Carriage and are subject to cancellation without notice. Bookings finalised prior to 11 November will be honoured. United is the first major US carrier to enact a strict restriction on agentic AI bookings.
United Airlines shared “AI-managed reservations violate the updated Contract of Carriage and are subject to cancellation without notice, though bookings finalised prior to November 11 will be honored.”
