Amadeus, a global leader in travel technology, has announced a strategic minority investment in Acai Travel, a New York-based startup specializing in generative artificial intelligence (AI). This move, facilitated through Amadeus Ventures, underscores the company’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge AI solutions into the travel industry. Amadeus Acai Travel investment

Acai Travel offers AI-driven tools designed to automate processes, enhance customer service, and optimize operational efficiency for various sectors, including online travel agencies (OTAs), travel management companies (TMCs), airlines, and hotels. Notably, their solutions have reportedly reduced average handling times by up to 50%, enabling travel agencies to manage higher volumes without proportionate increases in staff.

The partnership aims to build an AI-first infrastructure that promotes seamless communication and integration among travel service providers. By leveraging intelligent conversational interfaces, this infrastructure facilitates real-time collaboration between various players in the travel ecosystem, enhancing the overall traveler experience.

Additionally, the collaboration focuses on empowering a new generation of ‘full-stack human agents’—professionals equipped to handle a broad spectrum of tasks, from complex back-office functions to personalized concierge services, supported by AI tools that act as collaborative partners. This approach aims to cultivate highly skilled professionals capable of managing intricate travel operations with agility and empathy.

Acai Travel co-founder and CEO, Riccardo Vittoria said the investment will accelerate the company’s efforts to both create an “AI-first infrastructure” for the travel industry and deliver AI agents to empower travel professionals in, for example, managing back-office operations and providing concierge-level service.

“We are already cutting average handling times by 50 percent for our TMC and OTA clients, and we will begin working with airlines soon,” said Vittoria.

Suzanna Chiu, head of Amadeus Ventures, said, “We are proud to support the industry and invest in early-stage startups, ensuring we remain at the cutting-edge of our industry.

“The investment announced today with Acai Travel is a great example of this ambition in action, further equipping Amadeus to exploit the significant opportunities presented by Generative AI. We continue to partner with innovative startups and remain open to new propositions across the entire value chain.”

This strategic alliance between Amadeus and Acai Travel signifies a concerted effort to drive innovation and redefine service standards in the travel industry through the integration of advanced AI technologies.