Artificial Intelligence (AI) complements rather than replaces human expertise and personalised service in the travel industry, Europe’s tour operators were told at a meeting in Lamego, North Portugal.
The development gives an opportunity for even small travel companies can utilise AI technologies to improve their services and remain competitive. They view their commitment to climate action and embracing AI as a way to best serve customers, the industry, and the planet.
The European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Association (ECTAA) semi-annual meeting brought together 50 delegates representing travel companies from Europe. Delegates engaged with Microsoft, academia, and fellow travel companies to explore the potential of AI in enhancing efficiency and customer experiences.
ECTAA committed to reducing and compensating its carbon footprint, aligning with the global goal of a 50pc reduction by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050. They aim to lead by example in environmental sustainability and collaborated with other organizations to learn from their climate action plans.
ECTAA also urged MEPs to support the driving and rest time rules for coach drivers proposed by the European Commission and the Transport Committee’s lead rapporteur ahead of a critical vote in the European Parliament’s Transport Committee.
ECTAA says current coach driver rules are not suitable for the occasional passenger transport sector, and the Commission’s proposal, improved by the Transport and Tourism Committee’s lead rapporteur, aims to bring about impactful changes for the coach tourism sector and improve working conditions for drivers.
Coach tourism drivers have specific working patterns, including more breaks and stops along the way and a combination of longer and shorter trips. Adapting the rules to suit their specific needs can enhance their working conditions and support the tourism sector in Europe.
