Google has expanded the capabilities of its AI Mode in Search, introducing new travel-focused features that allow users to track flight fares, compare loyalty programme redemption rates and book hotels directly through AI-powered search.
Launched on August 27, the latest update is aimed at simplifying the travel planning and booking journey by bringing fare monitoring, loyalty rewards and hotel reservations into the AI Mode experience.
Flight price tracking integrated into AI search
The updated AI Mode enables travellers to set flight price alerts while continuing their search. Users can enter their preferred destination and travel dates, after which AI Mode presents flight options and current fares sourced from more than 300 partner airlines and travel sites.
Travellers can also ask AI Mode to monitor fares for specific routes and dates. If prices change, Google sends an email alert, allowing users to decide whether to book immediately or wait for a potentially better fare.
The flight price tracking feature is now available across more than 180 countries and territories.
Loyalty points and miles become part of the search journey
Google has also added the ability to view flight and hotel redemption rates through select loyalty programmes. Travellers using points or miles can ask AI Mode to identify relevant redemption options and indicate the number of points or miles required.
The feature currently supports Alaska Airlines/Hawaiian Airlines Atmos Rewards, American Airlines AAdvantage, Choice Privileges, Hilton Honors and Wyndham Rewards.
The integration brings loyalty currencies into the initial travel discovery process, potentially making points-based travel planning more accessible to consumers.
Hotel bookings move directly into AI Mode
Another key addition is the ability to book hotels directly within AI Mode. Users can provide their destination, travel dates and hotel preferences, with the system presenting accommodation options through integrated hotel and travel partners.
The hotel booking ecosystem currently includes players such as Booking.com, Choice Hotels International, Expedia, Hilton, Hotels.com, IHG Hotels & Resorts, Marriott International, Priceline, Trip.com and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.
While the booking journey takes place through AI Mode, the reservation itself remains the responsibility of the respective hotel or booking platform.
The move marks a further shift towards AI-led travel discovery, where search, comparison, price monitoring and transaction are increasingly being brought together within a single interface.
For hotels and online travel companies, the development also highlights the growing importance of visibility within AI-powered travel discovery and the potential impact of generative search on traditional booking journeys.
