OpenAI partners with Virgin Australia, bringing AI to travel planning
What's the story
Virgin Australia has partnered with OpenAI to bring artificial intelligence (AI) into its travel services. The collaboration is aimed at helping passengers plan and shop for their trips more efficiently. Greg Brockman, President and cofounder of OpenAI, confirmed the development on social media platform X. The airline will use OpenAI's API platform as part of its digital transformation efforts.
Technological integration
AI tools to enhance travel planning experience
The partnership will see the introduction of AI-based tools that provide personalized travel planning features. The initial work includes using AI to enhance personalization, simplify customer experience, and explore how a Virgin Australia app could work within ChatGPT with the company's newly launched Apps SDK. "The airline is focused on meeting customers in the places and platforms they use most to plan and shop for travel," said Dave Emerson, chief executive officer of Virgin Australia.
AI applications
AI trip planner and analytics for demand forecasting
Virgin Australia recently launched an AI Trip Planner to help users navigate fares, find destinations, and build custom itineraries. The airline has also been using AI-powered analytics to predict demand and adjust airfare pricing accordingly. As part of the new partnership with OpenAI, Virgin Australia's staff will be provided secure, enterprise-grade AI tools to carry out their operations efficiently.
Enhanced services
Virgin Australia's AI-powered flight search and booking
Virgin Australia is also working with OpenAI to integrate ChatGPT into its flight search. This would allow users to ask for flights in simple English, like "fastest route from Brisbane to Singapore next Tuesday with lie-flat seats," and get personalized results. The airline plans to expand this functionality over time to include booking through ChatGPT as well.
Operational efficiency
AI tools to expedite ticket changes and fare rules
The integration of AI tools will also help Virgin Australia's staff handle ticket changes and fare rules quickly, without having to wait on hold. This would ensure that disruptions are sorted out faster than before. The airline is also introducing AI features for corporate bookings and giving companies control over how they use these tools.