Google Introduces AI-Powered Flight Deals Tool
Google is enhancing its airfare-booking service with an AI-driven tool called Flight Deals, aimed at travelers uncertain about their destination. The new feature allows users to describe their ideal vacation, with the AI suggesting affordable flights based on user-defined criteria, reports 24brussels.
This functionality goes beyond the traditional method of inputting specific departure points and destinations. Instead, users can express their travel preferences, including desired activities and travel durations. For instance, users might inquire about options like a “weekend countryside getaway with trail rides and kayaking” or a “trip to Europe with great cheese and wine in May,” and the AI will provide affordable flight options accordingly.
During initial tests of the Flight Deals feature, a mix of well-known holiday locations and lesser-known spots was revealed. Searches for phrases such as “a tropical destination with snorkeling” returned popular results like Cozumel, Mexico, and Nassau, Bahamas. In contrast, seeking a “trip to Europe with hiking” uncovered more unexpected recommendations, such as Cluj-Napoca, Romania, and Ljubljana, Slovenia, appealing to those looking for unique travel experiences.
However, some suggestions were not as relevant. A search for a “tropical weekend trip under five hours” from the Orlando airport yielded results limited to Miami and Key West, which might not suit all travelers’ needs. Additionally, efforts to find “trips to Japan during cherry blossom season” resulted in the AI reporting no available deals.
If users do not specify travel dates, Flight Deals defaults to displaying options within the next six months. The tool also includes filters for preferences such as number of stops and airline choices, yet its AI design provides a streamlined experience that minimizes user input.
Despite certain limitations, Flight Deals holds potential for budget-conscious travelers seeking fresh inspiration for their next getaway. While users may not fully rely on AI for their entire travel itinerary, the feature can spark ideas for destinations worth further research. Google Flight Deals will enter beta testing for users in the US and Canada within the upcoming week, accessible from the stand-alone Flight Deals page or via the Google Flights menu.
