Vibe is investing in artificial technology in a way that it believes will ensure travel agents remain relevant, with a Model Context Protocol server designed specifically for managed travel, and it’s a move being welcomed by those on the ground.
The new AI integration allows corporate travellers to search, book and manage travel through plat forms such as ChatGPT, Claude and Microsoft Copilot, whilst keeping the Travel Management Company fully in control of the booking process, only allowing travellers to interact with approved corporate travel content.
For TMCs, the launch removes a major barrier to AI adoption, as those using Vibe can offer cli ents access to this AI-powered travel search, booking and servicing within their existing managed travel program.
Vibe’s co-founder and chief technical officer Matthew Chapman says risk for TMCs is not whether AI arrives in travel — it is that travellers start using AI outside managed programs. “This is not about replacing the TMC,” he emphasises. “It is about giving TMCs the tools to remain central, relevant and competitive as booking behaviour changes.”
. . . Locally
Orbit World Travel’s Craig Jenkinson echoes this, saying any supplier innovations that elevate the booking experience and increase customer satisfaction are positive. “Our role doesn’t change, we are trusted by our clients as their TMC to ensure content is delivered while adhering to approval processes, travel budgets, policy compliance and duty of care as our priority.” See more HERE.
