Key facts
- United Airlines said sharing account credentials with third-party AI assistants could expose sensitive information.
- United said such sharing could lead to unintended purchases, account modifications or unauthorized use of frequent-flyer miles.
- United said automated AI tools performing actions like flight check-in could create regulatory risks.
- United said it would restrict access through its own platforms and indirectly via travel agencies and aggregators.
- United said the steps include updates to its booking, ticketing and distribution policies.
United Airlines said on November 11, 2026 that it would restrict AI bots' access to its digital platforms, citing data security. The carrier said sharing account credentials with third-party AI assistants could expose sensitive information and lead to unintended purchases, account modifications or the unauthorized use of frequent-flyer miles.
United also said automated AI tools performing actions such as flight check-in could create regulatory risks, because check-in requires human acknowledgment for prohibited items such as explosives. The carrier said it would take steps to restrict access both directly through its digital platforms and indirectly through travel agencies and aggregators, including updates to its booking, ticketing and distribution policies.
The move comes as companies across industries take differing approaches to AI agents that can plan and book trips for travelers. Amazon has blocked Meta's AI agent Muse, while Walmart has partnered with it. Online travel firms such as Expedia and Booking are working with ChatGPT parent OpenAI.