Airbnb will launch its AI-powered travel agent in the first half of 2027, the company said in its Q3 2026 shareholder letter, released on Thursday, 5 November. Instead of text-only chatbot answers, the agent will offer personalised trip planning with maps, photos, calendars and comparisons with other trips.
The agent is expected to help users discover destinations, compare stays and manage different parts of their trips. CEO Brian Chesky said he wants an AI experience that is more interactive while keeping the fun of exploring destinations and properties. The announcement came with solid third-quarter results, which Airbnb said marked a return to faster growth.
Airbnb AI agent to offer personalised travel planning
Airbnb is building an AI-first experience that adapts to travellers’ needs. Rather than long text replies, the agent will use visuals such as maps, property photos, comparison tools, calendars and itineraries.
Speaking on the Q3 earnings call on 5 November, Chesky said travel planning needs a different approach from the routine tasks handled by general-purpose AI agents. He said around 80% of travellers enjoy researching their trips, including browsing property photos, comparing options, and discussing plans with friends. A conventional chatbot, he said, cannot fully deliver that experience.
AI agent to handle bookings, refunds and travel support
The AI assistant will not just be used for destination discovery and accommodation bookings but will also be extended to other functions. Airbnb will assist guests in managing bookings, resolving payment issues, seeking reimbursement, and rescheduling, according to its Q3 shareholder letter.
The company will also include 24/7 safety assistance as part of the experience. According to Airbnb, its almost 20 years of connecting hosts with guests will help develop an AI agent that understands the requirements of both groups.
The company plans to offer more travel-related services to the agent over time, such as hotel accommodations, local experiences, and additional services on the site.
Airbnb reports 19% revenue growth in Q3 2026
Airbnb revealed its AI announcement while releasing its financial results for the third quarter. The company reported $4.87 billion in revenue, which was ahead of Wall Street estimates and 19% higher than a year ago. In addition, Airbnb has increased its revenue growth target for 2026 to the high teens, up from a mid-teens projection.
Calling the performance a return to growth, Chesky told analysts that the company recorded its fastest revenue growth in more than three years during the third quarter.
Although the AI travel agent is planned for the first half of 2027, Airbnb is preparing for the next stage of platform development with artificial intelligence.