Chicago, Nov. 12 -- United Airlines is restricting unauthorised third-party artificial intelligence (AI) agents from accessing its digital platforms and booking systems, citing risks to customer data, account security and aviation safety.

The restrictions come ahead of the year-end holiday travel season, when demand for air travel typically rises as passengers make arrangements for family visits, vacations and other journeys.

With more customers using digital platforms to book and manage trips, the use of automated AI assistants is emerging as a new concern for airlines.

The measures will apply both directly through United's digital platforms and indirectly through travel agencies and aggregators.

The airline added that it is updating...