Big OTAs Bet on AI and Experience Economy

At a WiT panel in Queenstown, executives from Booking.com, Expedia, Trip.com, and former Webjet CEO discussed the future of OTAs. They noted AI is reshaping travel planning, but trust remains key for transactions. Expedia's AI-drafted responses have over 75% acceptance, and Trip.com's AI Trip Planner handles about 18% of itinerary planning. OTAs are also driving growth by bundling experiences like concert tickets, with packages in Hong Kong selling out in minutes.