the source for hotel and hospitality trends
Hotel guest satisfaction in North America has increased for the third consecutive year, with improvements seen across all aspects of the hotel experience, according to the JD Power 2026 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study. Enhanced guest rooms, better property upkeep, and the growing use of AI tools for hotel research are contributing to these gains.
New research from Marriott International’s Luxury Group reveals that Gen Z travelers in Asia Pacific are reshaping luxury travel through four distinct mindsets that emphasize personal meaning, well-being, cultural immersion, and digital disconnection, rather than adhering to traditional definitions of luxury.
Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), increased by 6.0% compared to May 2025 levels (6.5% for international operations).
The first quarter of 2026 saw American airlines reporting a combined loss of $1.0 billion, marking a downturn compared to the same period in the previous year.
Recent data reveals a slight increase in U.S. airline traffic for March 2026, marking a 0.9% rise compared to the same period in the previous year.
Hotels entered 2026 with stronger labor productivity, fewer labor hours per occupied room, and slightly leaner staffing levels
According to SiteMinder’s Mid-Year Report, despite the ongoing challenges, global hotel demand is expected to remain steady and reach its highest point in September.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released its latest financial outlook for the global airline industry, showing a halving of profitability as a result of war-related Middle East disruptions and high fuel prices.
The 2026 ARDA Spring Conference highlighted a strong, evolving timeshare industry, marked by high occupancy, steady sales, and growing adoption of AI and flexible ownership models. Consolidation among major brands and the phase-out of outdated resorts are reshaping the sector while strengthening its long-term stability and consumer appeal.
The U.S. hotel industry’s 2026 outlook has improved, with upgraded revenue projections driven by strong leisure and business travel demand, event recovery, and a positive impact from major events like the FIFA World Cup, despite ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties.