February 17, 2026
In This Edition… travel management news including UK’s ETA and FIFA World Cup, airline flight expansions, many updates from the U.S. Transportation Security Administration – including Touchless ID and ConfirmID, ground transportation news, traveler tips, and more!
Dans cette édition… des actualités sur la gestion des voyages, dont l’AVE du Royaume‑Uni et la Coupe du Monde de la FIFA, l’augmentation du nombre de vols opérés par les compagnies aériennes, de nombreuses mises à jour de la Transportation Security Administration (TSA) des États‑Unis – y compris Touchless ID et ConfirmID – des actualités sur les transports terrestres, des conseils aux voyageurs, et bien plus encore!
Navigator Blog
Why We’re All In On Spotnana
Discover how modern travel infrastructure, open architecture, and human-led service come together to create a better travel experience.
Podcast: Outgrowing Legacy Travel Systems
Major themes from episode 3 of the Altitude with Attitude podcast. Direct Travel and Spotnana discuss what’s next for travel technology.
How Avenir’s Booking Engine Powers Every Stage of Travel
Learn how Avenir’s booking engine helps users streamline bookings, improve compliance, and thrive in today’s evolving travel landscape.
Travel Management
U.K. Set to Enforce Electronic Travel Authorization Starting Feb. 25
Insider Travel Report — Starting Feb. 25, 2026, visitors from 85 countries, including the U.S., Canada, and France, will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the U.K.
Countries Adjust Travel Advisories for US Ahead of FIFA World Cup
TravelPulse — Countries primarily in Europe are adjusting their travel advisories for travelers to the United States ahead of global events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Airline & Flight Updates
WestJet Trims Nine More US Routes for Summer, 32% Seat Drop
OpenJaw — WestJet appears to be making deeper cuts to its US network than previously reported, suspending a total of 17 routes for Summer 2026 as both Canadian and American travellers scale back trips across the border.
Airport Upgrades, Airline Premium Expansions, and Biggest Air Travel News of January
TravelPulse — January 2026 saw major developments in air travel, including extensive airport upgrades, significant aircraft orders, expanded premium services by airlines, and new onboard meal options.
American Airlines Eyes Venezuela Return
Simple Flying — American Airlines has indicated that it is ready to restart nonstop flights from the United States to Venezuela, positioning the carrier as the first US airline to return to the country since service was halted in 2019.
Air Canada Bets on Airbus A350 to Power Next‑Decade of Long Haul Growth
OpenJaw — Against a background of slow aircraft deliveries hampering the airline’s growth ambitions, Air Canada announced that eight “state-of-the-art” Airbus A350‑1000s will join its fleet starting in 2030.
Fuel Crisis in Cuba Cuts Flights
Northstar Meetings Group (AP) — The U.S. blockade has deepened the energy crisis on the island, causing steep drops in tourism and the cancellation of major events.
Most Anticipated New Flight Routes for 2026
TravelPulse — Airlines are looking to meet demand with a plethora of exciting connections in the year ahead.
Singapore, Malaysia Airlines Form Joint Partnership
Business Travel News — Singapore Airlines and Malaysia Airlines have formed a joint business partnership after receiving approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia.
United Airlines Has Equipped 300+ Regional Aircraft With Starlink Wi-Fi
TravelPulse — United Airlines has outfitted over 300 regional jets with Starlink Wi-Fi, enhancing in-flight internet access by offering high-speed connectivity to passengers on about 1,200 daily flights, notably within the Embraer E-175 fleet.
Lufthansa to Introduce New Business Class Seats on A380 Fleet
Business Travel News Europe — Lufthansa Airlines has announced plans for a major cabin upgrade for its fleet of Airbus A380 superjumbo aircraft.
Munich's Airport to Open Massive New Terminal in April
Travel Weekly — The Terminal 1 Pier will provide additional capacity for up to 6 million passengers per year.
Qantas Ends Stake in Jetstar Japan
Travel Weekly Asia — Qantas has announced it will divest its stake in Jetstar Japan, which will be rebranded to a new Japanese-based structure. In a MoU signed on February 3, Qantas Group will sell off its 33.3% share.
Safety & Security
Getting Through Security at London’s Heathrow Airport Just Got Much Easier
Afar Magazine — A new and improved screening process is a complete game changer for travelers—especially those with a tight flight connection.
TSA ConfirmID — Launched February 1
TSA.gov — TSA ConfirmID is a new way for travelers to verify their identity for a 10-day travel period when they don’t have an acceptable ID on hand.
TSA PreCheck Touchless ID: The Effortless Way Through Security
TSA.gov — TSA PreCheck Touchless ID allows travelers to verify their identity using their face, no physical ID required at the checkpoint. It’s now available in 33 airports with Alaska, American, Delta, Southwest and United Airlines. Over 30 additional airports will have dedicated TSA PreCheck Touchless ID lanes by spring 2026.
TSA’s REAL ID Fee: What You Need to Know
TravelPulse — Effective February 1, 2026… travelers without a REAL ID might have to pay a $45 fee beginning February 1, 2026.
Government Travel Warnings
U.S. Department of State — Information on current government issued travel warnings and alerts.
Ground Transportation
Amtrak Suggests Early Booking for FIFA World Cup 2026, America250 Celebrations
TravelPulse — Anticipating one of the busiest times in Amtrak's history, the company is encouraging travelers to book early for FIFA World Cup 2026 and America250 events.
Uber to Offer Robo Taxis in 15 Cities by Year-End
Business Travel News Europe — The ride-hailing giant intends to be the largest facilitator of autonomous vehicle trips in the world by 2029.
Gas Prices in United States on the Rise
TravelPulse — Gas prices across the U.S. in 2025 generally trended downwards from last year, with recent averages at $3.07 per gallon due to falling demand and crude oil prices.
Hotel News
These Are the 25 Best Four-Star Hotels in NYC
Afar Magazine — A dose of luxury, at a gentler price—these are the 25 best four-star hotels in New York City.
Marriott, Hilton Sign Expansive Agreements Around the World
Hotel Investment Today — Marriott and Hilton both announced agreements, with Marriott adding four hotels and a branded residence totaling 1,900 keys in Vietnam and Hilton adding five hotels and 561 keys in Turkey.
Four Seasons Celebrates 65 Years With Growth Across Hotels and Yachts
Insider Travel Report — Four Seasons is heading into 2026 with new hotel and resort development planned for Italy, Greece, and Saudi Arabia, continued growth in branded residences, and the upcoming launch of Four Seasons Yachts, as the luxury hospitality company celebrates its 65th anniversary.
New NYC Hotel is Banking on Dining Revenue
Travel Weekly — The Kimpton Era Midtown aims to capture both hotel guests and local traffic with eclectic dining.
The Best Hotels with the Best Restaurants in the World
Michelin Guide — These properties have both a Michelin star and a Michelin Key award under the same roof, an exceedingly rare feat.
Traveler Tips, Trips & Convenience
10 Airport Perks That Will Make You Wish for a Longer Layover
Fodor’s Travel — From airport yoga rooms and hot springs to craft breweries and free city tours, these global airport amenities turn long layovers into experiences worth savoring.
Guide to New Taxes and Fees for US Travelers in 2026
TravelPulse — Here’s a rundown of some of the major travel taxes and fees going into effect in 2026.
How to Time Your Flights to Beat Jet Lag
Travel + Leisure — A new study shares how strategic light exposure and flight timing can reduce post-travel fatigue dramatically.
Meetings & Events
Event Gamification: Turning Participation into Purpose
Creative Group Blog — As expectations rise, audiences want more than content. They want to engage with it.
Looking for assistance with your next convention, incentive, or special event? From designing memorable experiences to managing strategic meetings, Direct Travel is your trusted event partner! For details, please send a message to: [email protected].