Articles tagged “competition”

Google is bending somewhat to intense regulatory pressure in Europe. But its answers in travel to date aren't very meaningful.

Google has argued for years that its boxed-up and featured hotel, flight, and restaurant results are highlighted because they provide users with the "best answers." But in Europe, regulators may have pushed Google to acquiesce, offering its competitors some air time in its featured results by testing direct links.

Online travel companies have faced intense regulatory scrutiny almost since the first days of internet bookings. But "you've got mail" these days is less likely to be a cheery email notification than a demand for court appearances and audits.

While European Union competition authorities might be happy with the results of their crackdowns, it doesn't look like much has changed. The market still makes it difficult for both smaller online travel agencies and the hotels themselves to compete.

It's a big market, with plenty of passengers eager to fly around. In their own way, all airlines are making the most of this boom.