AI pricing makes cheap flights harder to find as airlines adjust fares in real time

Airlines like Delta and Virgin Atlantic in the US are using AI to adjust ticket prices in real time, looking at dozens of factors instead of old fixed rules. This means travelers may find it harder to snag cheap seats on popular flights, as airlines try to avoid selling below what passengers are willing to pay.

AI models predict demand constantly, raising prices when possible and lowering them when needed. Analysts say AI makes pricing faster and more precise, using past booking data, seat availability, and season changes, while also watching competitors' fares almost instantly.

AI doesn't always push prices up. On less busy flights or weak routes, airlines might cut fares to attract more passengers, so off-peak tickets could be cheaper. But critics warn that with limited profit margins, airlines will use these tools to boost average fares and fill more seats.

There's also concern about "surveillance pricing." Consumer advocates say airlines could use AI to check your browsing history or income and charge different prices for the same seat. Volantio's AI can even find passengers willing to switch to emptier flights for vouchers, then resell their seats at higher prices.