FCM’s virtual travel assistant, Sam, is now available to customers across South Africa, serving as an advanced intelligence system for travellers, travel bookers, and managers.
Sam uses machine learning to anticipate traveller needs, learning from every interaction and delivering personalised recommendations. Sam handles practical scenarios that business travellers encounter daily such as checking live security wait times at OR Tambo, confirming visa requirements, or getting instant updates when weather affects flights. The system provides budget advice that factors in rand exchange rates and local supplier pricing trends.
It is available across FCM’s proprietary platform, app, and browser extension.
Key benefits of Sam:
- Real-time solutions: check airport security wait times and confirm visa requirements.
- Personalised support: tailored recommendations based on user preferences, including suggesting optimal flight classes or loyalty benefits.
- Unplanned events: Sam offers assistance and guidance when it comes to delays, cancellations, and emergencies, providing options, policies, and contacts without the user having to ask.
- For travel managers: Sam can be configured to meet customer needs, allowing travel managers to create a unique experience.
Sam handles diverse scenarios for different users:
- Travellers asking: “How long is the security line at Heathrow right now?” or “Do I have any loyalty benefits for my next trip?”
- Travel bookers asking: “Do I have any travellers in Paris today?” or “Connect me to an agent.”
- Travel managers asking: “Any employees travelling internationally this week?” or “What's the status of my support ticket?”
