Airport transfers now available in ChatGPT with new hoppa plug in

Move is off the back off research that finds one in four brits would rather use AI than a travel agent

AI is fast becoming the interface people use to plan their holidays with new data revealing that almost 1 in 4 Brits would rather use AI than a travel agent to book a holiday, according to a survey from hoppa.

It found that almost 40% of respondents said they would be likely to use AI to book a holiday rather than through a travel agent, while just 7% said they would choose a travel agent, with 13% said they preferred a combination of AI and a travel agent.

The statistics come as airport transfers booking platform hoppa launches its new ChatGPT plug-in, allowing holidaymakers to search for and book airport transfers directly within their AI-powered trip-planning experience.

From the results, the survey found the biggest perceived benefits of using AI are saving time (40%), reducing planning stress (25%), and receiving personalised recommendations (21.5%).

More than 45% of respondents said they would be either ‘very comfortable’ or ‘somewhat comfortable’ with AI booking a trip on their behalf, compared with 32% who said they would not trust AI to do so.

Cost is also a major consideration,  with 16% using AI to find budget-friendly destinations, and 12% relying on it to search for cheaper flights.

Chris Harrington, managing director and Travel Expert, comments: “There’s currently a change happening in how customers interact with travel brands. What’s becoming more common is that potential travellers are starting their booking journey with AI, using these conversational platforms to research destinations, build itineraries, and instantly provide the best options tailored to their holiday preferences. 

"The natural next step is being able to complete the journey by booking the ride as well. With that said, there are still teething issues. Some people are hesitant to trust AI for expensive purchases, such as travel. 

"Consumers appreciate AI for its speed and convenience, but they want reassurance that what they’re booking is not only accurate but also reliable and right for their travel needs," he said.

“I believe that’s where the next phase of travel technology comes in, combining the conversational approach of AI with human-grade ability by pairing with trusted travel booking platforms. 

"It’s not about removing human decision-making, but about enhancing it. Rather than AI-controlled travel planning, it’s about AI-assisted travel planning, giving people more confidence, not less, when they book. 

He added: “Businesses that integrate and adapt to these ecosystems will be best placed to meet customers where they’re already planning. 

"You’re already asking ChatGPT where to stay, why can’t we ask it to sort the transfer too?”