Vibe launches AI integration with MCP layer for TMCs

ITG Business Travel is the first client, it's already live and testing

Travel technology firm Vibe has launched a new AI integration that allows corporate travellers to search, book and manage travel through platforms such as ChatGPT, Claude and Microsoft Copilot.

The twist of this latest roll out is it's the first to keep the Travel Management Company "fully in control of the booking process".

This is made possible through the Vibe MCP - Model Context Protocol - server that connects Vibe-powered TMC platforms directly with leading AI assistant environments, enabling travellers to interact with approved corporate travel content through natural language conversations rather than relying solely on traditional booking interfaces.

For TMCs, the launch removes a major barrier to AI adoption. Instead of having to build their own AI infrastructure, TMCs using Vibe can offer clients access to AI-powered travel search, booking and servicing within their existing managed travel programme.

Through the integration, corporate travellers can use their preferred AI assistant to search and book flights, rail and hotels, view existing bookings, manage travel arrangements, make payments, amend itineraries and access relevant corporate travel policy information.

Matthew Chapman, co-founder and chief technical officer of Vibe, said: "Is this the beginning of the end of traditional booking behaviour? AI is rapidly becoming the front door to digital commerce. The risk for TMCs is not whether AI arrives in travel - it is that travellers start using AI outside managed programmes.

“Our MCP server gives TMCs a practical way - for the first time ever, we’re not aware of anything like this elsewhere - to participate in that future now, without losing control of their brand, supplier content, commercial model or corporate travel policies.

“This is not about replacing the TMC. It is about giving TMCs the tools to remain central, relevant and competitive as booking behaviour changes.”

ITG Business Travel is the first Vibe client already live with the integration and is currently testing the technology with corporate clients in real-world booking environments.

Mat Cook, managing director of ITG Business Travel, said: “Vibe’s MCP server gives us the ability to compete in a rapidly evolving AI landscape without the significant investment and technical resource usually required to build this type of capability in-house.

“We are already live with the integration and are testing it with corporate clients to understand how travellers engage with AI-powered booking and travel management tools. The insight we gain from that process will help shape future enhancements and ensure the technology delivers real value for managed travel.”

The launch is said to "represent" the latest investment from Vibe in technology that "helps travel businesses compete, grow and deliver modern digital experiences".

Chapman added: "Vibe is not building another standalone AI travel tool. We are enabling the existing travel ecosystem to operate in an AI-first world.

“Our view is simple: TMCs should not have to watch from the sidelines while AI changes how travellers search, book and manage services. They should be able to lead that change for their clients.”