Rethinking travel search with AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the entire travel journey—from inspiration and search to booking and in-trip support—creating both disruption and new opportunities across the ecosystem.

As the pace of innovation accelerates, travel companies are rethinking how they present content, engage customers and integrate with AI platforms that are increasingly capturing attention that once went to Google and other traditional search outlets.

In a discussion in the PhocusWire studio at Phocuswright Europe, Skyscanner chief product officer Piero Sierra explained how the company is navigating this shift. He shared how Skyscanner is leveraging AI and large language models to enhance traveler discovery, power new B2B partnerships and evolve its role from a metasearch engine to a trusted travel platform.

Sierra also offered candid advice for startups and incumbents alike on staying focused, going niche and preparing for a future where intelligent agents collaborate across brands to deliver seamless, personalized travel planning.

Watch the full discussion with Phocuswright/PhocusWire senior vice president of content Mitra Sorrells below: