United blocks third-party AI agents from booking flights; JetBlue says airlines should follow customers' lead

United Airlines said Wednesday it will restrict unauthorized third-party personal AI agents from booking, changing or servicing its flights, both on its own app and website and indirectly through travel agencies and aggregators, updating its booking, ticketing and distribution policies. The carrier cited exposed credentials, unintended purchases or MileagePlus redemptions, and FAA and DOT rules such as the human check-in acknowledgment that bags carry no banned items. AI tools can still search and show United fares, but customers must complete purchases themselves; agent bookings made before Nov. 11 won't be canceled. Speaking at the Skift Commerce Summit, JetBlue President Marty St. George said he understands airlines' wariness of AI intermediaries that could one day demand booking fees, but that carriers should adapt if customers prefer AI booking tools.