In 2023, nearly three in ten flights arrived more than 15 minutes late, according to Eurocontrol's 2024 data snapshot. Sadly, the reality — for many travellers around the world — is still the same today. Thebrings a familiar hustle and bustle: packed airports, long lines at security, delayed flights and the occasional scramble to find a gate. It’s a logistical nightmare that tests even the most seasoned travel operators.
But now, buoyed by AI, the travel industry is finding some respite amidst the chaos. Udi Segall, CEO of IntellAct, said in an interview that AI’s role in the travel industry isn’t just about technology, but about connecting people. “AI’s true power lies in its human impact,” he told me. “It’s about ensuring families reunite on time, sparing crew members from extended delays, and bringing peace of mind to passengers navigating the holiday rush.” AI is helping airports and airlines be more efficient this holiday season, streamlining operations, reducing costs and improving passenger experiences. But for Segall, there are 5 major ways AI is keeping the booming travel industry on track.One of AI’s biggest promises for the travel industry is its ability to track, analyze and improve airplane turnaround times — a critical metric for maintaining on-time performance. Segall, who is also a board member of the Smart Airport Technologies Association, explained that AI-powered descriptive analytics can monitor every step of the turnaround process, from baggage unloading to cleaning services and passenger boarding.Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Clues And Answers For Saturday, December 28th The hundreds of data points that AI gathers often help to generate a clear picture of how long each step takes. So, when delays occur, AI’s diagnostic capabilities kick in, identifying root causes such as slower-than-expected boarding or baggage handling issue