95% of business travellers see AI potential benefits

New Amex GBT research highlights optimism for enhancing convenience, efficiency, and cost savings

American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT) has published new research showcasing a positive outlook on the use of artificial intelligence to support business travel. 

According to the findings, 95% of frequent business travellers believe AI can enhance their travel experience, with added convenience (44%), cost efficiencies (43%), and streamlined expense management (41%) among the top benefits.

The survey of 2,260 professionals across the UK and US reveals that frequent business travellers see great potential for AI to handle functional tasks, such as booking business travel and amending travel arrangements. Respondents particularly valued AI’s ability to simplify flight choices (37%) and hotel selection (35%).

David Thompson, chief technology officer of Amex GBT, said: “AI can be a powerful tool in creating efficiencies and automating time-intensive tasks before and during business trips. 

"We prioritise responsible innovation, applying stringent testing and partnering with best-in-class AI experts to ensure our solutions are reliable and secure. 

"We see AI as an assistant, enhancing the expertise of our team, which is central to our success and that of our customers."

While the sentiment towards AI is largely positive, the research did identify areas where business travellers are more cautious. 

Only 29% trust AI to personalise onboard flight preferences such as seat allocation and meal selection, and 23% are confident in AI's ability to choose the right hotel room. 

Concerns around data security (46%), accuracy (44%), and reliability (37%) highlight the need for continuous improvements and transparency.

“To harness the full power of AI, businesses must address travellers’ concerns and consider privacy and accuracy every step of the way,” added Thompson. 

“By maintaining a secure environment and collaborating with trusted technology partners, we continue to innovate responsibly, ensuring our employees and customers feel confident in our AI advancements.”

Earlier this year Amex GBT announced its new AI initiative that increases focus on existing AI projects to drive purposeful innovation and greater efficiencies for clients and the corporate travel management ecosystem. 

In Amex GBT’s secure environment, the team continues to apply robust testing and is partnering with best-in-class AI experts, so our employees and customers can feel confident that we are progressing responsibly.

As the corporate travel management ecosystem evolves, Amex GBT remains dedicated to bringing travellers on the AI journey, driving greater efficiencies and enhancing the overall travel experience through thoughtful and responsible AI integration.