From shifting flight plans and rising holiday airfares to loyalty program changes and Disney Cruise Line’s expansion into Japan, the latest travel industry news brings important updates for advisors. Here’s what you need to know this week.
Delta Air Lines is postponing its launch of nonstop flights between Atlanta and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, until March 2027, citing evolving developments in the region. In a statement, the airline said the safety and security of its customers and employees remain its top priorities. READ MORE
Holiday travelers are in for a bigger bill this year, with domestic Thanksgiving airfares up 15 percent and Christmas fares climbing 16 percent year over year. The good news? International fares are holding relatively steady. READ MORE
Travel prices climbed 8.7 percent year to date, more than twice the pace of overall inflation, as rising fuel costs drove a 2.1 percent monthly increase in the U.S. Travel Association’s Travel Price Index in September. These increases can create new challenges—or booking opportunities—for travel advisors. READ MORE
Southwest Airlines is shaking up Rapid Rewards with new elite status tiers, more milestone perks and expanded Companion Pass benefits. The overhaul also gives members more ways to redeem points. READ MORE
After recently announcing news about the new Disney Believe, Disney Cruise Line has revealed the name of its first ship to sail from Japan: Disney Imagination, scheduled to debut in spring 2029 from Tokyo. READ MORE
