In a new study from Delta Air Lines, 79% of respondents say that experiencing something in person feels more and more meaningful, as a direct result of seeing an increasing amount of content generated or altered by AI.
The Connection Index: Why We Fly report found that the desire for real-life experiences is even higher among younger generations who have grown up online, including millennials (82%) and Gen Z (81%).
Our Analysis: The Desire for Meaningful Travel Is an Opportunity for Advisors
Importantly for our industry, travel is seen as a way to close the gap between our increasingly digital lifestyles and our longing for real-world experiences: 84% of global travelers say they feel a strong desire to travel and connect with new places and people, regardless of what’s happening in the world. Taking a trip can also help combat feelings of loneliness and foster connections with new people, according to 80% of survey respondents.
Since these sentiments are only likely to increase as AI, social media and other digital platforms continue their rise, travel advisors should be thinking about how to appeal to this potential client pool — especially younger generations — with meaningful opportunities that will help them take the leap from screen time to vacation time and make human connections along the way.
Fast Facts: More Findings From the Study
- Travel has helped 82% of respondents connect with someone, up from 79% in 2025. Eighty-three percent say they have kept in contact with the new acquaintances they made during their trips.
- When it comes to existing connections, 38% say that travel helps them to be more present in their relationships.
- Digital discovery is driving travel: 73% of respondents say they have gone to a place they discovered online to experience it in person.
- The survey also found that 38% of travelers feel taking a trip brings out a new aspect of their personality, and 48% found a new hobby or passion.
- Delta Air Lines and Wakefield Research surveyed 9,000 global travelers for the study.
