Google LLC has clarified that while it’s developing what’s been called an “agentic” AI tool capable of booking flights and hotels on behalf of users, it does not intend to become an online travel agency (OTA). The company insists it will continue to act as a facilitator — integrating with airlines, hotels and OTAs — rather than managing bookings, customer relationships or handling transactions itself. This approach is meant to preserve the role of existing travel intermediaries and avoid direct competition with them. However, the move still signals a potential shift in travel distribution by embedding more autonomous AI-driven workflows into the booking process.
