May 26, 2026
In This Edition… airline codeshare expansions, traveler loyalty program updates, TSA prepares for summer travel, additional airport security news, new hotels, many valuable traveler tips, measuring event sustainability, and more!
Dans cette édition… de nouveaux accords de partage de codes entre les compagnies aériennes, des mises à jour sur les programmes de fidélité destinés aux voyageurs, les préparatifs de la TSA pour la saison estivale, des actualités supplémentaires sur la sécurité aéroportuaire, l’ouverture de nouveaux hôtels, de nombreux conseils pratiques pour les voyageurs, l’évaluation de la durabilité des événements, et bien plus encore!
Navigator Blog
Innovation and the Perfect Business Trip: Key Findings from GBTA’s Report
Achieving the “Perfect Business Trip” Isn’t Just About AI. It’s About Connecting the Travel Experience.
Traveler Tips for Stress Management and Staying Well on the Road
Discover practical tips for managing anxiety, maintaining wellness, and staying at your best during every business trip.
Airline & Flight Updates
New International Flights Speak to Growing Ottawa Travel Market, Says Analyst
CBC.ca — The launch of several new international routes from Ottawa's airport — including one that debuted last week to London — shows airlines see promise in the local travel market, according to one industry analyst.
WestJet and Fiji Airways Launch Codeshare
Open Jaw — WestJet and Fiji Airways are enacting their codeshare permit this month on service between Vancouver and Nadi, allowing guests to travel seamlessly across both airlines' networks.
JetBlue and United Expand Blue Sky Perks to Loyalty Programs
Travel Weekly — Status flyers are eligible for benefits like a free checked bag and boarding privileges when flying on the other airline.
United Airlines Reveals Restart Date for Venezuela Flights
Travel Weekly — The new route is the first time the airline is flying to Venezuela since it suspended service in June, 2017.
Summary of Air Canada International Suspensions Across 13 Routes
Aviation A2Z — Air Canada is cutting 13 international routes citing weak demand, rising fuel costs, and operational pressures. Despite the reductions, the airline is expanding its Europe network.
Wheels Up Secures Another $100M from Delta-Led Investors
Business Travel News — Private aviation provider Wheels Up has received another $100 million in term loan support from its investor group led by Delta Air Lines.
No More Air France-KLM: Group to Scrap 22-Year-Old Name Amid SAS & TAP Moves
Simple Flying — Air France-KLM is pushing ahead with plans to change its name as it prepares to welcome Scandinavian carrier SAS into the fold.
Allegiant and Sun Country Complete $1.5 Billion Merger
Travel Market Report — The combined airline is now the fifth-largest U.S. airline by passenger volume.
Bye-Bye, Biscoff! Delta Discontinues Snack and Drink Service on Certain Flights
Afar Magazine — The move comes as airlines are grappling with increasing costs.
Safety & Security
TSA Readies for Summer Travel Season Kickoff
TSA.org — Agency prepared for FIFA World Cup, America 250... and more.
Boston Logan Airport Launches “Straight to Gate” Off-Site Security Option
Travel Market Report — The program allows travelers to go through airport security away from Boston Logan.
Atlanta Airport Considers Privatizing TSA Security
CBS News — After travelers faced hours-long TSA lines during the recent shutdown, an Atlanta city councilman has proposed a 90-day feasibility study to look into privatizin the service through the TSA's Screening Partnership Program.
This Underused Option Is the Quickest Way to Get Through TSA
Afar Magazine — It’s currently available at more than 60 U.S. airports.
Government Travel Warnings
U.S. Department of State — Information on current government issued travel warnings and alerts.
Hotel News
Sonesta Presented Billboard’s Women in Music
Billboard — Billboard Women in Music 2026 returned to Los Angeles on April 29, and Sonesta International Hotels presented fans with exclusive access to the celeb-filled affair.
IHG to Add Five Properties, Introduce Kimpton in India
Business Travel News — IHG Hotels & Resorts will add five properties in India in gateway cities and airport-led destinations, the company announced.
The Strange Magic of an Airport Hotel
Afar Magazine — Travel can be unpredictable, but for one writer, a reliable stay near the airport is a comforting constant—and sometimes, even a treat.
The First Gluten-Free Hotel in the U.S. Has Opened
Afar Magazine — The Hotel Monroe is a dream stay for those with celiac disease, with on-site restaurants serving typically gluten-heavy dishes like fried catfish and bread pudding.
These Are the 22 Best Historic Hotels Around the World
Afar Magazine — These remarkable hotel makeovers of historic buildings are bringing the past to life again.
Traveler Tips, Trips & Convenience
These Are the Most Exciting New Airport Lounges in the U.S.
Afar Magazine — The splashiest new airport lounge openings, including Amex Centurion, Chase Sapphire, Delta Sky Club, and Priority Pass locations—and what to know before you go.
Please Don’t Put Your Suitcase on the Bed—Ever
Afar Magazine — The real (disgusting) reason there’s a luggage rack in your hotel room.
How Concerned Should Travelers Be About Hantavirus? We Asked Infectious Disease Experts
Afar Magazine — A viral outbreak on a cruise ship has left three people dead. But experts say this is not going to be another pandemic.
Toronto Airport Begins Multibillion-Dollar Upgrade
TravelPulse — It's one of the biggest airport infrastructure projects in Canadian history.
The Best Airlines in North America for Each Class, Ranked
Afar Magazine — Nearly 11,000 airline passengers rated their flying experience over the past 12 months. Here’s which airlines they liked for every class.
What to Do if You Get Injured or Sick While Traveling
Afar Magazine — Getting sick or injured on a trip rarely comes with clear answers. Here’s how to navigate medical care abroad, understand your insurance, and make the right call in the moment.
7 Countries Where Your Dollar Goes Furthest
Afar Magazine — Have you been waiting for the right moment to book an international trip? These destinations deliver more for your money right now.
Caribbean Hurricane Season Is Underway
Afar Magazine — According to the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS), hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June 1 through November 30 and normally peaks in August and September.
Meetings & Events
Enhancing and Measuring Event Sustainability
Northstar Meetings Group — In a recent Northstar Meetings Group webinar, experts discussed key metrics and strategies for planners. Michael Shapiro shares some takeaways.
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].