United Allows Search Indexing but Requires Permission for AI Agents

2026-11-15 · Digital Living

United has updated its terms so search engines can index its public pages, while AI agents need written permission to use the site. The terms also prohibit AI grounding on its data.

United, an airline, has changed its site terms to treat traditional search engines and AI tools differently. Search engines may index its public pages. AI agents must get written permission first.

The updated terms also bar AI grounding on the airline's data. Grounding means an AI system draws on outside information to shape its answers, so this restriction goes beyond blocking automated visits.

The split shows a company keeping the visibility that comes from search indexing while setting firmer limits on how AI systems use its content and data. The source gives no further detail on how the rules will be enforced.

For business owners and marketers, the point is that website terms are becoming a place to state a policy on AI access, separate from the rules for search engines.

Takeaway for businesses: Review your own website terms to check whether they say how search engines and AI agents may access and use your content and data.

Sources: https://www.searchenginejournal.com/united-ai-agents-permission-search-indexing/597418/