Concerns Grow Among Travel Agents Over AI Replacement

A recent global study conducted by RateHawk in honor of World Tourism Day has found that many travel agents express anxiety about being left behind and losing clients due to the rise of AI technology.

Split Opinions on AI Impact

The report indicates that nearly half of the respondents fear competition from AI, feeling that it may replace their roles in the future. The survey, which included over 1,300 participants across Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, and the GCC region, showed a divide in opinions regarding AI’s potential impact on their jobs.

Insights from the Study

56% of the surveyed professionals believe AI will not replace them, while 44% view it as a legitimate possibility. In Asia and the GCC regions, a significant percentage (60% and 55% respectively) see AI as a realistic threat, in contrast to the more skeptical views held by the majority in Europe and Latin America.

The study further reveals a notable skepticism among North American agents, with only 20% concerned about job replacement by AI. Interestingly, those newer to the industry (with less than three years of experience) show greater apprehension, with 51% believing they could be replaced, compared to only 40% of those more seasoned professionals with over 15 years in the industry.

A Discussion for the Future

Kastberg emphasized that the upcoming World Tourism Day, focusing on sustainable transformation in the sector, presents an ideal opportunity to discuss the future of travel agencies within the evolving technological landscape.

In her commentary, Kastberg noted growing expectations around personalized experiences among travelers, stating, “According to research by Kantar, 40% of global travelers have already used AI tools to plan their trips, and 62% are open to using them in the future.” She encouraged agents to utilize AI tools as beneficial partners rather than competitors.