WTTC and Microsoft reveal the transformative impact of artificial intelligence

27-04-24

At a recent event at the UN General Assembly in New York, the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) along with Microsoft, presented two groundbreaking reports outlining the significant impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the travel and tourism industry. These reports, titled "Responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI): Overview of AI Risks, Security and Governance" and "Artificial Intelligence (AI): Global Strategies, Policies and Regulations," mark a crucial advancement in WTTC's mission to promote innovation and excellence in customer experiences through ethical and responsible integration of AI.

The first report, "Responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI)," focuses on the ethical challenges and potential risks involved in the use of AI, proposing regulatory frameworks that ensure transparency, fairness and accountability. It addresses critical issues such as bias, discrimination and the need for human oversight in AI systems.

On the other hand, "Artificial Intelligence (AI): Global Strategies, Policies and Regulations" provides a comprehensive overview of how different countries and international organizations are shaping the future of AI, developing strategies and policies to foster innovation and ensure its ethical and responsible use.

Julia Simpson, president and CEO of WTTC, noted, "AI is establishing itself as a catalyst for positive change. The insights provided by these reports make it clear that AI transcends being merely a technological advancement; it is an essential strategic tool for personalizing customer experiences, fostering sustainability and shaping the future of the travel and tourism sector."

Major industry players, such as Iberostar, are already implementing AI to optimize their operations, such as in the management and reduction of food waste, achieving significant savings and environmental benefits.

Julie Shainock, managing director of the Travel, Transportation and Logistics Industry at Microsoft, commented, "We see AI being widely integrated across the travel ecosystem, improving both customer and employee experiences and boosting operational efficiency. Despite these advances, we recognize that this is only the beginning of the journey."

WTTC stresses that while AI offers immense opportunities to revolutionize operations in the travel industry, it still faces challenges, including a lack of skilled AI workforce, highlighting the need for proactive actions to facilitate its adoption.

As AI continues to transform industries, WTTC remains a leader in advocating for AI development that is safe, ethical and inclusive.