Your daily insight into the business of travel from the industry’s most trusted authority.

Expedia makes its second acquisition of 2026 and does a reset on its AI strategy, Google officially names hotel booking as the next frontier for agentic shopping, and private equity has discovered the events industry — and the people inside it aren't sure how to feel about it. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why Expedia's CarTrawler deal and AI pivot reveal a company quietly becoming a B2B infrastructure powerhouse, why Google's latest announcements could disrupt the entire hotel discovery and booking funnel overnight, and what a room full of events industry CEOs is making of the private equity money flowing their way. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IG Expedia To Acquire CarTrawler in Second B2B Deal of 2026 Expedia CEO Ariane Gorin on What Companies Get Wrong About AI Chatbots Google Names Hotels as Next Vertical for Agentic ShoppingPrivate Equity Has Discovered the Events Industry — Now What? Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

New York City hotel workers secure a landmark eight-year labor deal, Ryanair's CEO ties his fuel outlook directly to Trump's midterm ambitions, and Cathay Pacific removes the most photographed amenity in airport lounges — and the reason why says a lot about where luxury travel is heading. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why NYC's groundbreaking housekeeper pay deal is about to become the new benchmark for hotel labor negotiations nationwide, how Ryanair's Michael O'Leary is betting Trump will resolve the Iran conflict before elevated fuel prices cost him the midterms, and why Cathay Pacific's decision to swap its iconic cabanas for massage booths reflects a fundamental shift in what luxury travelers actually want. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IG NYC Hotel Housekeepers' Pay to Hit $61 an Hour Ryanair CEO Ties Fuel Outlook to Trump's Midterm Math Cathay Pacific Removed Its First Class Lounge Cabanas. That Tells You Where Luxury Travel Is Heading. Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Americans are hungry for summer travel despite rising costs, Brand USA launches a fact-checking platform to win back international visitors, and new Skift Research says most travel brands don't just have one Gen Z problem... they have two. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why this summer's travel demand is strong but deeply uneven across income levels, how Brand USA's new "Get Facts. Get Going." platform is tackling misinformation keeping international travelers away from the U.S., and why the travel brands focused only on reaching Gen Z are missing the harder and more expensive problem. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IG 'Desperate' to Travel, but Rising Costs Point to 'Uneven' Summer Brand USA Launches Fact-Checking Platform to Win Back International Travelers Travel Brands Think They Have a Gen Z Problem. Most Have Two. Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Travel prices climb at twice the rate of inflation, the U.S. eases visa rules for World Cup fans, and Abu Dhabi reveals the future home of its massive Sphere venue. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why rising fuel costs are pushing travel prices sharply higher across flights, hotels, and transportation, how the U.S. is trying to remove barriers for international World Cup visitors, and why Abu Dhabi's new Sphere project is part of a much bigger entertainment and tourism strategy. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGTravel Cost Gains Outpace Inflation RateU.S. Waives $15,000 Visa Bond for World Cup Ticket HoldersAbu Dhabi's Sphere Has a Home on Yas Island Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Booking Holdings faces a strategic identity test, Mediterranean destinations absorb redirected travel demand, and United locks in an expensive new labor deal. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why Booking Holdings' financial filings tell a more cautious story than its AI ambitions suggest, where global travel demand is shifting as the Middle East struggles and the Mediterranean surges, and what United's costly new flight attendant contract means for the future of airfare pricing. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGBooking Holdings Is Running Ahead of Its Own StrategyWhere Travel Demand Is Heading: Middle East Down, Mediterranean UpUnited Is the Last Big 4 Airline to Settle With Flight Attendants. Here's What It Cost. Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

TikTok launches in-app travel booking, U.S. inbound tourism drops sharply, and World Cup pricing spirals into luxury-only territory. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down TikTok Go's launch in the U.S. and why it could reshape travel discovery and booking, the troubling new numbers behind America's inbound tourism slump, and how dynamic pricing is turning the World Cup into the clearest example yet of “premium-first” live tourism. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGTikTok Go Launches Travel Booking in the U.S.World Cup Costs Reflect the Rise of K-Shaped Live TourismU.S. Inbound International Tourism Slumped in April Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Fuel costs surge, travel companies absorb billions in Iran war losses, and hotel CEOs debate whether the economy is finally catching up to luxury travel. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why airfares are climbing even faster after Spirit Airlines' shutdown, how the Iran war is reshaping profit forecasts across airlines, cruises, hotels, and short-term rentals, and why hotel executives suddenly can't stop describing the economy with letters of the alphabet. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGHigher Fuel Costs and Spirit's End Mean Higher AirfaresIran War Costs Have Hit Travel's Profit ForecastsThe Hotel Industry CEOs Can't Decide What Letter the Economy Is Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Trivago sues Google over hotel search dominance, Weather.com moves into travel booking, and Tripadvisor explores AI deals while trimming its business. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down Trivago's new antitrust lawsuit against Google, why Weather.com wants to influence your next trip before you even search for one, and how Tripadvisor is reshaping its business around AI partnerships and strategic selloffs. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGTrivago Files Antitrust Lawsuit Against GoogleWeather.com Wants to Turn Forecasts Into Travel BookingsTripadvisor Explores AI Deals and a Sale of TheFork Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Fuel costs hammer airlines, Kayak's founders launch a new AI travel startup, and Disney proves fewer guests can still mean bigger profits. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down the staggering rise in airline fuel spending tied to the Iran war, why the creators of Kayak are betting on conversational AI travel booking with a new venture called Lola, and how Disney's parks are making more money despite lower attendance. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGU.S. Airlines Are Spending Over $5 Billion on FuelKayak Co-Founders Reunite for Booking Holdings AI Startup LolaDisney's Q2 Park Spending Up Even as Visitation Falls Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Airlines rush to replace Spirit routes, Uber pushes deeper into travel services, and rising fuel costs hit the cruise industry hard. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how airlines are moving fast after Spirit's shutdown, why Uber's CEO sees a much bigger future in travel, and what Norwegian Cruise Line's lowered outlook says about the growing impact of fuel prices across the industry. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGSpirit's Failure Shocked America. The Rest of the World Is Used to ItJetBlue and Rivals Race to Grab Spirit's Routes and CustomersUber CEO Says the Company's Travel Ambitions Are Just BeginningNorwegian Cruise Line Slashes Profit Outlook as Fuel Costs Mount Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnewsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.socialX: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Spirit shuts down and its assets spark a scramble, World Cup hotel bookings fall short of expectations, and new data shows loyalty programs aren't delivering real loyalty. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down what Spirit's collapse signals for budget airlines, why World Cup demand isn't matching the hype, and what 7,000 travelers reveal about the future of loyalty in travel. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGSpirit Airlines Shuts DownFire Sale: What Assets Does Spirit Have and Who Could Buy Them?80% of Hotels Say World Cup Bookings Are Missing ForecastsWhat 7,000 Travelers Reveal About Loyalty, Pricing, and Where Demand Is Really Heading Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Uber starts booking hotels through Expedia, AI's role in travel booking is still evolving, and travelers are prioritizing speed over service style. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why Uber's hotel feature is really about subscriptions, what the AI debate reveals about the future of booking, and why travelers care more about fast answers than whether they come from humans or machines. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGUber's Hotel Deal Tells You More About Expedia's Future Than Uber'sHigh-Touch Service Debate at Skift Asia ForumAI and OTA Trust Debate at Skift Asia Forum Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Asia is reshaping global travel demand, United expands loyalty into everyday spending, and Minor Hotels moves deeper into ultra-luxury. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why Asia is becoming the center of gravity for travel growth, how United is turning Lyft rides into a loyalty play, and why Minor Hotels is adding private jets to its luxury ecosystem. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGThe Great Rebalancing: Asia's Advantage and Why Travel Brands Need to Catch UpUnited Expands Lyft Partnership With Miles RedemptionMinor Hotels to Launch Private Jet Experience Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Low-cost airlines push for government aid, international travelers pull back from U.S. trips, and Virgin Voyages bets big on TikTok creators. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why budget airlines are asking for a $2.5 billion lifeline, how declining international demand is hitting vacation rentals harder than expected, and what Virgin Voyages' massive influencer cruise reveals about the future of travel marketing. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGBudget Airlines Seek $2.5 Billion Bailout From U.S. GovernmentU.S. Tourism Slump Is Hitting Short-Term Rentals HardVirgin Voyages Invites 1,100 TikTok Creators on Cruise Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

United's CEO makes a public case for consolidation, AI is simplifying complex travel booking, and onefinestay is doubling down on ultra-luxury. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why United is signaling future merger ambitions, how Google Cloud and Virgin Voyages are reshaping trip planning with AI, and why onefinestay is shrinking its portfolio to chase higher-end travelers. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGUnited CEO Defends American Airlines Merger in Public MemoGoogle Cloud and Virgin Voyages Launch AI Travel AssistantSteve Case's Onefinestay Sheds Rentals to Focus on Luxury Travelers Connect with SkiftLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnewsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.socialX: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

American and Alaska explore a deeper partnership, Emirates says travelers will move on quickly from the Iran war, and hotel earnings are starting strong despite uncertainty ahead. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why American and Alaska teaming up could reshape airline competition, what Emirates' confidence signals about travel recovery, and why hotel earnings are showing strength now with risk building later in the year. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGAmerican and Alaska Airlines in Talks Over Revenue-Sharing PartnershipEmirates President Tim Clark Says Travelers Will Forget the CrisisHotel Earnings Preview Shows Best Quarter in a Year After Weak 2025 Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

White Lotus Picks Hyatt as Heat and Airbnb Rules Reshape Travel White Lotus Season 4 lands at Hyatt, extreme heat is shifting global travel patterns, and New York's Airbnb crackdown is showing cracks. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why White Lotus moving away from Four Seasons matters for hotel brands, how rising temperatures are changing where and when people travel, and why nearly a third of NYC's approved Airbnb listings may not be playing by the rules. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced:Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGHyatt and Airelles Win White Lotus Season 4 as Four Seasons Steps AsideNYC Finds 27 Percent of Approved Short-Term Rentals Turned IllegalExtreme Heat Is Changing When and Where People Travel Connect with SkiftLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnewsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.socialX: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

JetBlue's CEO shuts down bankruptcy rumors, World Cup fans face rising costs at every step, and aviation's clean fuel future is hitting real limits. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why JetBlue is feeling pressure despite denying restructuring plans, how the 2026 World Cup is turning into a high-cost event for travelers, and why sustainable aviation fuel isn't ready to solve the industry's biggest challenges. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGJetBlue CEO's Note to Staff: No Bankruptcy NowWorld Cup Fees and Prices Are Squeezing TravelersAviation's Decarbonization Bet Is Looking Shakier Than Ever Connect with SkiftLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnewsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.socialX: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Hyatt is rolling out ChatGPT Enterprise across the company, American Airlines is shutting down merger speculation with United, and Google is adding new tools to keep travelers inside its ecosystem longer. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why Hyatt is treating AI like infrastructure, what American's response says about airline consolidation pressure, and how Google is quietly strengthening its role in the booking journey. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced:Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGHyatt Rolls Out ChatGPT Enterprise Across the CompanyAmerican Airlines Says It's Not Interested in a United MergerGoogle Adds Hotel Price Tracking for Individual Properties Connect with SkiftLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnewsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.socialX: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

American travelers are prioritizing stability over deals, airlines are testing whether passengers will pay for sleep in economy, and Saudi Arabia is scaling back parts of its tourism ambitions to focus on what actually drives demand. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why predictability is reshaping travel decisions, what Air New Zealand's new $495 Skynest product signals for airline strategy, and how Saudi Arabia is recalibrating Vision 2030. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IG How Cartels Conflict and Live Tourism Are Redrawing the American Travel Map The $495 Nap Bunk Beds Are Coming to Economy Class This Fall Saudi Arabia Scraps Tourism Funding in Vision 2030 Shake Up Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews ↗ and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Travelers are using AI to plan trips but stopping short of letting it book, hotel owners are getting squeezed while brands post record profits, and a potential United and American merger could reshape the airline industry. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why merger talk signals strategy under pressure, how Chris Nassetta is framing a bullish hotel outlook, and what the emerging AI travel stack means for platforms like Expedia Group and Booking Holdings. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IG JetBlue Rumors Now American What a United Mega Merger Would Mean Hilton CEO Argues the Bull Case Despite Iran War and Weak World Cup Signals The Five Layers of the AI Travel Stack and the Fight Over Which One Matters Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Travelers are using AI to plan trips but stopping short of letting it book, hotel owners are getting squeezed while brands post record profits, and a potential United and American merger could reshape the airline industry. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why AI still has a trust gap at checkout, how the hotel business model is creating tension between brands and owners, and why even talk of a merger between United Airlines and American Airlines is a major signal for the future of aviation. This episode is presented by Lodgify. Articles: Honorable Mention: AskAConciergehttps://skift.com/2026/04/14/expedia-ai-survey-travel-discovery-booking-8-percent/https://skift.com/2026/04/13/the-squeeze-inside-the-crisis-crushing-americas-hotel-owners/https://skift.com/2026/04/13/united-airlines-floated-possible-merger-with-rival-american-report/ Connect with SkiftLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnewsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.socialX: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Delta doubles down on premium cabins with a billion-dollar investment, tax refunds fall short of boosting travel as expected, and a luxury hotel pioneer returns with a new membership-driven model. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why airlines are building around high-paying travelers, what softer tax refunds mean for travel demand, and how luxury hospitality is shifting toward exclusivity and community. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGDelta One's First Upgrade in a DecadeTravel Spending Boost From Tax Refunds Falls ShortThe Man Who Built Six Senses Is Back With a New Luxury Concept Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Travel demand stalled in February as uncertainty reshapes decisions, countries add new guidance for visiting the U.S., and Meta's AI signals a bigger shift in how trips get chosen. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why travel is becoming a confidence-driven decision again, what international travelers need to know before coming to the U.S., and how AI is moving the battleground for travel from booking to inspiration. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGSkift Travel Health Index FlatlinesWhat Countries Are Telling Travelers About Visiting the U.S. Right NowMeta's New AI Model and the Future of Travel Discovery Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Delta warns the current fuel shock may force structural change across airlines, as leadership risk emerges at top carriers and AI shifts from experimentation to core infrastructure. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why rising fuel costs could accelerate consolidation, what happens when airline strategy is tied too closely to one leader, and why the next phase of AI in travel is about reliability, not hype. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGDelta CEO Sees Fuel Crisis Spurring Structural ChangesWhat Happens to America's Best Airlines When Their CEOs LeaveAI Infrastructure and the Future of Travel Orchestration Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.socialX: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

The UAE moves to stabilize tourism as demand drops, Hyatt ties executive pay to fixing direct bookings, and Carnival doubles down on value-driven travel. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how the UAE is managing tourism through disruption, why Hyatt is putting real accountability behind direct booking goals, and how Carnival is leaning into proximity and pricing to win travelers right now. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGUAE Preparing Tourism Sector Support PackageHyatt Ties C-Suite Pay to Direct Bookings and Lifestyle Hotels GoalsChristine Duffy on Carnival's Value Strategy Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

British Airways is testing in-flight phone calls with Starlink, as luxury hotel brand Montage doubles down on slow growth and hotel giants sit on billions in unredeemed loyalty points. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why in-flight calls could reshape cabin etiquette, how Montage is scaling luxury without losing its identity, and what the growing “loyalty IOU” really means for travelers. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGBritish Airways Will Allow In-Flight Calls With StarlinkHow Montage Is Scaling Luxury Brands — Slowly, and With PurposeThe $7 Billion Loyalty IOU: What Marriott and Hilton Owe Members Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnewsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.socialX: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

New U.S. entry rules and fees are adding friction for travelers, as hotel giants quietly reshape midscale stays and buffets face a sustainability overhaul. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down what travelers actually need to know about new U.S. entry requirements, why more hotels will look familiar, but feel more consistent, and how food waste cuts could change the classic hotel breakfast. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGU.S. Travel Restrictions 2026: What Travelers Need to KnowIHG, Marriott, Hyatt Lean on Conversions for Midscale GrowthHotels Target Buffets in Push to Cut Food Waste Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Meta's new smart glasses bring real-time translation into everyday travel, as Marriott tests a Gen Z workforce reset and women take the lead in destination marketing. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how AI-powered eyewear could reshape where travelers feel comfortable going, why Marriott is rethinking hotel work schedules to retain younger staff, and how leadership is shifting across global destination organizations. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGMeta Ray-Ban Prescription Glasses Bring Translation to TravelMarriott India Says Cutting Overtime Boosts ProductivityAs Destination Marketing Evolves, Women Are Taking the Lead Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Dubai rolls out emergency relief as the Iran war hits tourism, Southwest rewrites its identity, and Airbnb moves closer to owning the entire trip. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy unpacks how Dubai is prioritizing liquidity to keep hotels afloat, why Southwest's transformation signals a deeper shift in airline economics, and how Airbnb is turning the arrival moment into its next competitive edge. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGDubai Throws Hotels a Lifeline as Iran War Devastates TourismSouthwest 2.0: The Radical Reinvention of America's Favorite Cult AirlineAirbnb's Latest Service Expansion: Rides From the Airport Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Uber's move to acquire Blacklane signals a deeper push into premium travel, as Air Canada faces leadership fallout after a crisis response misstep and the travel industry confronts an outdated advocacy playbook in Washington. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why Uber is buying trust instead of building it, how leadership decisions during crisis moments can reshape executive timelines, and why travel's influence in Washington may not match its economic weight. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGUber to Buy Blacklane in Push to Accelerate Premium ServicesAir Canada CEO to Retire Amid Backlash to LaGuardia Crash ResponseThe U.S. Travel Industry's Advocacy Infrastructure Is Obsolete Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Early hotel bookings for the 2026 World Cup are coming in softer than expected, signaling a shift toward last-minute demand, while hotels race to capture travelers earlier in the discovery phase and Gen Z reshapes how travel competes with other spending priorities. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why World Cup demand may materialize later than expected, how hotels are trying to influence travelers before they even search for a stay, and why younger travelers are forcing brands to prove travel is worth the spend. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGHotels Warn World Cup Bookings Are Coming in LightMillennials Made Travel Their Personality — For Gen Z, It's Just Another PurchaseHilton, Marriott, TUI, Minor, Kempinski: How AI and Social Media Are Reshaping Travel Discovery Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Travel demand is holding steady but shifting to last-minute booking behavior, forcing companies to adapt faster, while IHG argues scale is the best defense against global uncertainty and a new CEO letter warns that many 2026 assumptions have already broken. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why shorter booking windows are reshaping how travel companies operate, how large hotel groups are positioning themselves to absorb demand shifts across regions, and why industry leaders say this year requires faster decisions and a reset in strategy. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGAccor CEO: Geopolitical Turmoil Isn't Killing Travel — But Companies Need AgilityIHG CEO: Uncertainty Is the Only Certainty We HaveThe Recalibration: A CEO-to-CEO Letter on How to Think About the Rest of 2026 Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Airports are pulling back on reporting TSA wait times as staffing shortages push security lines to extreme levels, while United doubles down on premium cabins with a massive aircraft order and Tripadvisor faces renewed pressure after striking a deal with activist investor Starboard Value. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why disappearing wait-time data is creating a new trust problem for travelers, how United is betting big on premium demand to drive future growth, and what Tripadvisor's latest investor deal could signal for its next strategic moves. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGDid ICE Help? Airports Stop Posting Wait Times as Lines Stretch for HoursUnited to Add 250 Planes to FleetTripadvisor and Starboard Value Make Peace — Activist Investor Could Get 4 Board Seats Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

A deadly ground collision shuts down LaGuardia and disrupts travel across the region, Marriott signals a potential new brand with fresh trademark filings, and Radisson positions net-zero hotels as a hedge against rising energy costs. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how a single incident exposed fragility in the U.S. aviation system, why Marriott continues to expand its brand ecosystem to capture more traveler segments, and how sustainability is increasingly being driven by cost control and risk management. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGAir Canada Plane Collides With Vehicle at LaGuardia, Killing 2 PilotsIs Marriott Preparing a New Brand? What Its Global Trademark Filings RevealRadisson's Net-Zero Hotels Future-Proof Against Rising Energy Costs Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnewsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.socialX: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Travel's obsession with loyalty member counts is being challenged, U.S. inbound travel edges up after months of decline, and event planners face stricter force majeure realities as geopolitical risk reshapes contracts. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why loyalty growth doesn't always translate into lower acquisition costs, how inbound demand remains uneven despite a slight rebound, and why force majeure clauses are becoming more restrictive in a more volatile travel environment. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGTravel's Most Celebrated Number Is Its Most MeaninglessU.S. Travel Breaks 9-Month Losing Streak — But Just BarelyWar, Contracts, and the New Reality of Force Majeure Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

The Middle East tourism sector faces a multi-year recovery challenge as the Iran war reshapes traveler habits, Gulf airlines are loosening loyalty requirements to protect frequent flyers during disruption, and Capital One is bringing its travel platform in-house by acquiring the Hopper technology that powered it. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how prolonged disruption could reshape destination demand in the Middle East, why airlines are using loyalty programs as a crisis retention tool, and what Capital One's move signals about banks becoming powerful players in travel distribution. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGThe Long Shadow: What the Middle East's Destination Brands Will Look Like in 2028Iran War Forces Gulf Airlines to Loosen Loyalty RequirementsCapital One to Make ‘Payout' to Acquire the Hopper Tech and Employees that Built Its Travel Portal Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Travelers are pivoting away from the Middle East as the Iran war continues, Delta says demand remains strong despite soaring fuel costs, and Hyatt launches a push into smaller U.S. markets with new non-luxury brands. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how travel demand is redistributing globally during the Middle East crisis, why premium travelers are helping airlines offset higher fuel prices, and how Hyatt is racing to fill gaps in smaller U.S. markets where competitors already dominate. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGWith UAE Tourism in Crisis, Here's Where Travelers Are Going InsteadDelta CEO Says Demand Is Up, Despite High Jet Fuel CostsHyatt's Catch-Up Play: Non-Luxury Brands in Smaller Markets Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

The Iran war disrupted a major global travel corridor, exposed the limits of AI-powered support during crisis moments, and reignited the long-running airline vs. OTA customer ownership battle as travelers struggled to rebook flights at scale. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how the conflict revealed lingering weaknesses in travel's disruption response, why AI customer service largely vanished during the biggest test since Covid, and what happens when airlines and online travel agencies push responsibility back and forth while passengers try to get home. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGHow the Iran War Broke TravelMiddle East Crisis: AI Goes Missing When Travelers Need It MostWho Owns the Customer When OTA Clients Try to Rebook a Flight During the Iran War? Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Marriott accelerates AI tools to strengthen direct bookings while managing a Middle East dip, Hyatt says wealthy travelers are rerouting rather than canceling trips during global disruptions, and new research shows more travelers are choosing trains across Europe for the experience — not climate concerns. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how Marriott is using conversational AI to keep bookings inside its ecosystem, why luxury travelers are reshaping destinations rather than skipping trips, and what's really driving Europe's growing shift toward rail travel. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGMarriott Sees Middle East Dip but Expands AI ToolsEurope Travelers Swap Planes for Trains — But Climate Isn't the DriverHyatt CFO on Global Shocks: Wealthy Travelers Aren't Canceling Trips Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Canadian travel to the U.S. declines for the 13th straight month, Hilton's CEO warns the country has lost half its global tourism share, and Airbnb hires a former Uber executive to unify operations as it expands into an “entire trip” platform. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how shifting Canadian demand is reshaping airline routes, why Hilton sees massive upside if the U.S. rebuilds inbound travel strategy, and how Airbnb's latest leadership hire supports its push to scale services, experiences, and trip planning in one ecosystem. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGCanadian Travel to the U.S. Keeps Falling — Now for 13 Straight MonthsHilton CEO Calls Out Decline in U.S. Tourism but Sees Economic Boost AheadAirbnb Appoints Former Uber Safety Exec as Global Head of Operations Connect with SkiftLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnewsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnewsBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.socialX: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Oil surges past $100 a barrel threatening double-digit airfare increases, TSA staffing shortages during the shutdown trigger hours-long airport lines, and IHG reviews its climate targets after emissions rose despite efficiency gains. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how fuel prices could ripple through airline pricing and travel demand, why missing paychecks are creating operational stress at airport security, and what rising emissions mean for hotel industry climate commitments. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGOil Price Shock Could Mean 10%+ Fare Hike, $24 Billion in Costs for U.S. AirlinesShutdown Triggers TSA Staffing Shortages and Hours-Long Airport LinesIHG Reviews Climate Targets After Emissions Rise Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.socialX: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry

OpenAI backs away from in-chat checkout in ChatGPT, potential Formula One cancellations raise concerns for Middle East events, and strict short-term rental rules in New York are pushing World Cup lodging demand across the Hudson River to New Jersey. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why AI may control travel discovery but not transactions, how F1's disruption signals broader risk for the regional events economy, and how housing policy is reshaping where World Cup visitors — and their spending — land in the New York metro area. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGChatGPT Bails on Transactions — Good News for Expedia and BookingF1's Likely April Cancellations: A Major Warning for Middle East EventsAirbnb Faces World Cup Shortfall in NYC — New Jersey Is Dominating Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Airbnb pushes its “entire trip” strategy with airport transfers and services, private jet demand out of the UAE surges amid regional disruptions, and the 2026 World Cup countdown faces mounting concerns over tickets, security funding, and entry barriers. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down Airbnb's push to own the trip interface, why airspace disruptions are fueling a premium aviation scramble, and how logistics — not soccer — may be the toughest challenge as the World Cup approaches. This episode is presented by Lodgify!Articles Referenced:Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGAirbnb's “One-Stop-Shop” Plan to Own Your Entire Trip300% Increase in Private Jet Demand in UAE, Charter Provider ClaimsUnpaid Bills, Blocked Fans, and Cartel Violence Cloud World Cup Countdown Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Google is pushing luggage tracking deeper into airline baggage systems, giving travelers a new way to share live bag location data directly with carriers. Accor is sounding the alarm from ITB Berlin, warning the industry not to let AI flatten hotel differentiation or hand the guest relationship to third-party interfaces. And Expedia is describing a dramatic internal pivot, tightening performance metrics and costs while doubling down on machine learning and AI to defend its position as distribution competition intensifies. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down why the real battleground is the interface — who owns the relationship, the data, and the moment of travel need. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Canadian travelers are rapidly re-routing their winter trips as traditional sun destinations wobble — creating new winners and losers in 2026. Meanwhile, travel brands are racing to build “agentic” AI tools, but most consumers still aren't ready to let bots handle their bookings. And Rafat Ali's “Claude Effect” highlights how even small AI breakthroughs are already rattling travel valuations and forcing distribution players to defend their margins. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how shifting demand, fragile AI trust, and market anxiety are reshaping travel strategy in real time. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IG Why Ignoring Canada Just Got Expensive Travel Brands Are Building AI Agents for a Consumer That Doesn't Exist The Claude Effect Is Coming for Travel Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Dubai's reputation as a stable global travel hub faces new pressure after regional strikes disrupt airspace and test traveler confidence. The FAA considers limiting flights at Chicago O'Hare to prevent cascading summer delays as airlines battle for dominance. And Southwest bans smart glasses in the workplace, signaling a new era of privacy and risk management as wearable tech spreads. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy unpacks how geopolitics, infrastructure limits, and emerging technology are reshaping airline operations and destination perception. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IG Dubai's Status as a Travel Safe Haven Tested as Iran Strikes the UAE FAA Considers Reducing Flights at Chicago O'Hare After American and United Turf War Southwest Airlines Bars Employees From Wearing Smart Glasses: Scoop Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Hotel executives spotlight loyalty as a growing profit engine beyond room revenue, Barcelona moves to double its hotel tax to manage overtourism, and Vrbo tests a weather-refund add-on that pays travelers automatically if rainfall crosses a set threshold. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how hotels are monetizing guest relationships beyond RevPAR, why Barcelona is betting demand can withstand higher visitor fees, and how embedded “peace of mind” products are becoming a bigger part of the booking flow. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGHotel Execs Reveal New Revenue Priority: Making More From LoyaltyBarcelona to Double Hotel TaxVrbo Guests Can Pay Fees to Get Refunds When Rain Ruins a Stay Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Amadeus acquires SkyLink to accelerate conversational AI booking, corporate layoffs begin tightening approval and ROI scrutiny around meetings, and Saudi's Red Sea airport pushes for a 50:50 international split while scaling a controlled luxury destination. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy unpacks how booking interfaces are shifting from search to dialogue, why meetings now have to prove their revenue value, and how Saudi Arabia is engineering premium tourism growth without overwhelming its brand promise. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IGAmadeus Acquired SkyLink to Infuse Its Products With Conversational AISweeping Corporate Layoffs Start to Make Their Mark on MeetingsSaudi's Red Sea Airport Aims for 50:50 Split Between Domestic and International Travelers Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.

Spirit Airlines reaches a deal to exit bankruptcy leaner and more premium-focused, hotel owners grapple with shifting U.S. tariff rules that complicate renovation budgets, and Airbnb tests airport pickups as it edges closer to becoming a full-service travel platform. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy breaks down how Spirit is betting on margin over size, why tariff uncertainty is forcing hotels into “wait and hedge” mode, and how Airbnb's push into ground transport signals a broader grab for the entire trip. Articles Referenced:Spirit Airlines Reaches Deal to Emerge From BankruptcyHoteliers Scramble to Price U.S. Tariff RiskAirbnb Is Testing Airport Pickups. Are Flights Next?

A turbulent travel weekend brings TSA PreCheck confusion, 7,000+ blizzard cancellations, and flight suspensions to Puerto Vallarta, Oneworld names a new CEO as alliances fight for relevance, and proposed U.S. entry requirements raise fresh concerns for international meetings and business travel. On today's Skift Daily Briefing, Sarah Dandashy unpacks how operational volatility is testing traveler trust, why airline alliances must prove their value beyond branding, and how stricter visa data rules could chill inbound demand ahead of major global events. This episode is presented by Lodgify! Articles Referenced: Honorable Mention: @AskAConcierge on IG TSA PreCheck Remains Operational After DHS Said It Would Suspend Program Airlines Cancel Over 7,000 Flights as Blizzard Hits Northeast Airlines Suspend Flights to Puerto Vallarta as Unrest Erupts in Mexico Oneworld Appoints New CEO as Airline Alliances Fight for Relevance Proposed U.S. Entry Requirements Could Wreak Havoc on Meetings and Events Connect with Skift LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/skift/ WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaAL375LikgIXmNPYQ0L/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/skiftnews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiftnews/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@skiftnews Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/skiftnews.bsky.social X: https://twitter.com/skift Subscribe to @SkiftNews and never miss an update from the travel industry.