ZDNET reporter used Gemini prompts to find cheaper upstate New York–Florida flights

ZDNET reporter Elyse Betters Picaro ran 20 prompts through Google's Gemini to hunt for the cheapest flights for a proposed late‑August family trip from upstate New York to Florida and reported that Gemini provided specific, actionable guidance rather than generic tips. Gemini pushed the reporter toward alternative airports and an open‑jaw itinerary, flagging Sanford (SFB), Burlington (BTV) and tiny Massena (MSS) as cheaper options than Plattsburgh.

It highlighted Allegiant fares as low as $49–$75 for some winter dates but warned Allegiant appears to pause service in mid‑August. Gemini recommended Breeze from Burlington to Orlando (about $89 base but rising with baggage), Boutique Air from Massena (around $102–$109 with bags included), and Contour from Plattsburgh (about $193 with bags).

It also suggested booking separate one‑way legs and an open‑jaw plan — flying into Orlando and returning from Miami — and estimated a protected, baggage‑included open‑jaw itinerary at about $316 per person. The article notes Gemini integrates Google Flights and can surface live availability and links but cannot complete bookings; users must book on airline or booking sites.

Prices fluctuate, and Picaro said she plans to run the prompts again once the ACC football schedule is released so she can provide exact travel dates.

Key Topics

Tech, Google Gemini, Plattsburgh, Burlington, Massena, Allegiant