A Melbourne startup is taking travel planning into the future. Booked AI, founded by entrepreneur Mennan Yelkenci, has unveiled a beta version of its mobile app designed to transform the way Australians plan their trips. Combining advanced artificial intelligence (AI) with human-like expertise, the platform offers a seamless travel experience that handles everything from destination queries to booking hotels and flights.

What sets Booked AI apart is its International Air Transport Association (IATA) accreditation—a prestigious certification typically reserved for traditional travel agencies. This milestone positions Booked AI as the first AI-driven travel platform in Australia and globally to achieve this recognition.

A One-Stop Travel Concierge

“At Booked AI, our mission is to eliminate the hassle of piecing together travel plans,” says Yelkenci, who recently won the 2024 Melbourne Young Entrepreneur Award – Startup. The platform’s AI streamlines the process, allowing users to create, edit, and share itineraries, find the best prices, and access budget-friendly options—all from a single app.

By partnering with over 200 airlines and 1,000 accommodation providers worldwide, Booked AI ensures users have access to competitive deals. Its direct integration with Qantas also gives it an edge in providing exceptional pricing for domestic travel.

The app’s multilingual functionality adds to its appeal, making it accessible to travellers worldwide. But its strongest focus remains on Australian users, leveraging local integrations to offer unmatched convenience and pricing.

“For travellers juggling tabs and second-guessing choices, Booked AI acts as a digital concierge, providing personalised recommendations based on preferences, budgets, and itineraries,” Yelkenci explains.

Meeting Industry Standards with Cutting-Edge Technology

Securing IATA accreditation was no small feat for the startup. Yelkenci describes the process as rigorous, especially for a technology-first platform. Traditionally, IATA accreditation is granted to agencies that meet stringent financial and operational benchmarks. For Booked AI, this meant demonstrating not only financial stability but also its ability to manage complex booking and payment systems securely.

“This accreditation allows us to go beyond aggregating travel options,” Yelkenci shares. “We can now handle bookings directly, offering a level of trust and reliability that’s groundbreaking for an AI-powered platform.”

In addition to direct flight bookings and access to IATA’s billing and settlement system, the accreditation solidifies Booked AI’s position as a trailblazer in the travel tech space.

Revolutionising Travel for the Tech-Savvy

The app’s innovation lies in its simplicity and integration. Booked AI users can plan trips as easily as they would hail an Uber or book a table at a restaurant. Yelkenci draws parallels with how other industries have embraced technology to enhance user experience.

“We’ve seen video move from VHS to Netflix and music from vinyl to Spotify. Travel booking has followed a similar path—from in-person to online, and now to AI-powered solutions like Booked AI,” he notes.

Studies suggest travellers revisit booking platforms multiple times before making decisions. Booked AI eliminates this uncertainty, delivering tailored results instantly to help users make informed choices.

The Future of Travel

Yelkenci believes Booked AI represents the next step in travel innovation, catering to a tech-savvy audience that values time and personalisation. The platform’s unique combination of cutting-edge technology and user-centric design positions it as a game-changer in the travel industry.

“With Booked AI, you have a travel agent in your pocket,” Yelkenci says. “It’s about making travel planning effortless, intuitive, and enjoyable.”

As the beta app rolls out, Booked AI promises to redefine how Australians and global users approach travel, marking a significant leap forward in the world of travel tech.