airBaltic Welcomes New Airbus A220-300, Strengthening Fleet for Expanding Network and Enhanced Passenger Experience

airBaltic strengthens its fleet with a new Airbus A220-300, enhancing its network capacity and passenger comfort, while continuing to lead in efficiency and connectivity.

On 15 February 2026, airBaltic took delivery of its latest Airbus A220-300, registered YL-BTD, marking another milestone in the airline’s expansion and fleet modernization. This new addition brings airBaltic’s fleet of Airbus A220-300 aircraft to a total of 54, solidifying the carrier’s commitment to providing passengers with a superior flying experience while enhancing the airline’s operational efficiency across a growing network of routes.

The newly delivered Airbus A220-300 strengthens airBaltic’s capacity to serve both existing routes and new destinations, improving connectivity to major cities across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. This versatile aircraft plays a crucial role in airBaltic’s operations, not only by directly serving the airline’s route network but also by supporting the carrier’s ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) partnerships across European markets. The ACMI model allows airBaltic to offer flexible capacity, adjusting to varying seasonal demand and maximizing the operational use of its fleet.

Since the airline first introduced the Airbus A220-300 into its fleet in 2016, airBaltic has carried over 24 million passengers on these aircraft, completed approximately 250,000 flights, and logged more than 551,000 flight hours. These statistics demonstrate the aircraft’s remarkable ability to serve a variety of routes efficiently, both short and long haul, while maintaining operational reliability and flexibility. The Airbus A220-300 has become a cornerstone of airBaltic’s growth strategy, enabling the airline to meet increasing passenger demand and expand its international presence.

The latest A220-300 aircraft enhances the passenger experience with its modern design and comfort features. The aircraft boasts wider seats, larger windows, and increased overhead storage space, ensuring a more comfortable journey. These features, combined with a quieter cabin environment, contribute to a superior in-flight experience. Additionally, the Airbus A220-300 is known for its environmentally friendly performance, significantly reducing noise levels and CO₂ and NOx emissions compared to older aircraft, helping airBaltic reduce its environmental footprint while providing efficient service to its customers.

In a continued effort to enhance passenger connectivity, airBaltic has made headlines with its introduction of free high-speed SpaceX Starlink internet onboard. In 2025, airBaltic became the first European airline to offer this advanced internet technology, ensuring that passengers can stay connected from the moment they board until they land. With over 20 aircraft currently equipped with Starlink, and more installations underway, the airline is committed to providing seamless connectivity for travelers, allowing them to remain online throughout their entire journey.

airBaltic’s growth over the past three decades is a testament to its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global connectivity. The airline now connects the Baltic States to over 80 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and the Caucasus, playing a vital role in supporting regional tourism, business, and international travel. With the addition of the newest Airbus A220-300, airBaltic continues to strengthen its position as a leading carrier in the region, offering world-class service, expanding its network, and remaining dedicated to providing passengers with the best possible travel experience.

airBaltic, the leading airline in the Baltics and one of Europe’s fastest-growing carriers, was founded in 1995. As a hybrid airline, it combines the benefits of both traditional network and low-cost carriers. Today, airBaltic operates one of Europe’s youngest fleets, with 54 Airbus A220-300 aircraft and a workforce of nearly 3,000 employees. In 2025, the airline made history by becoming the first European carrier to offer free high-speed SpaceX Starlink internet on board.

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Visit Qatar Wraps Up Successful 2026 Brouq Desert Activation with Over 60,000 Attendees and Expanded Experiences

Visit Qatar has officially concluded the 2026 edition of Brouq, its premier desert activation, marking another successful year for one of the country’s most cherished winter events. Running for 77 days, from December 2025 until 10 February 2026, Brouq attracted a remarkable 61,121 attendees, solidifying its position as a must-visit destination for both residents and visitors alike. This year’s event was a blend of adventure, cultural experiences, and live entertainment, providing a dynamic showcase of Qatar’s desert landscape.

A Richly Diverse Programme

Set against the backdrop of Qatar’s stunning desert, Brouq offered an eclectic mix of experiences, making it an irresistible draw for visitors of all ages. The Desert Escape Zone became one of the event’s most iconic attractions, with the addition of several exciting new features. Among these was the towering 25-meter Adventure Tower, designed to thrill those with a sense of adventure. This area also included a zipline experience, offering visitors an adrenaline rush as they soared over the desert, taking in the sprawling vistas below. Alongside these high-energy experiences, the zone featured open-air dining areas where guests could savor local delicacies while enjoying the entertainment.

For those looking to relax and immerse themselves in the culture, the Film City zone provided an unforgettable experience. Here, attendees had the opportunity to engage in a variety of cultural activities, such as falcon photo opportunities, henna art, and traditional musical performances. The storytelling sessions, held at various points throughout the site, captivated audiences, weaving tales of Qatar’s rich history and traditions.

Family-Friendly Activities Galore

Brouq 2026 placed a strong emphasis on family engagement, ensuring that younger visitors had just as much fun as the adults. Across the activation, a total of 539 activities and workshops were organized, with many specifically designed for children. The lineup included puppet shows, face painting, caricature classes, and much more, making Brouq a family-friendly destination that encouraged repeat visitation. The event’s appeal to families is expected to strengthen Qatar’s reputation as a destination for year-round tourism, offering both adventure and cultural immersion in a single package.

New Features and Expansions

The 2026 edition of Brouq introduced several fresh activation areas, enhancing the overall visitor experience and providing even more ways to engage with the desert landscape. Among these new areas was the Sunset Lounge, which offered a peaceful retreat where guests could unwind as the sun set over the desert horizon. The Brouq Wildlife Reserve, another exciting addition, gave visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the desert environment, with an emphasis on local wildlife.

Additionally, the Mini Safari Cars provided a fun and interactive way for families to explore the vast desert. These small vehicles offered a safe and exciting adventure through the dunes, perfect for young explorers looking to experience the desert in a new way. The Family Majlis was another welcomed feature, where families could gather and relax in a traditional setting, enjoying the camaraderie and comfort of a local cultural space.

Food, Shopping, and Entertainment

No outdoor event is complete without a diverse range of food, shopping, and entertainment options, and Brouq delivered on all fronts. With 24 food and beverage vendors, alongside retail outlets offering a selection of local crafts and goods, visitors were able to enjoy a full desert experience. Whether indulging in traditional Qatari dishes or browsing local handicrafts, Brouq ensured that attendees could enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of Qatar.

The activation was also supported by continuous live performances, keeping the atmosphere vibrant throughout the event. Music, dance, and theatrical acts were a constant presence, with performances designed to reflect Qatar’s diverse cultural heritage while providing entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Strong Focus on Domestic Tourism

Visit Qatar’s commitment to fostering domestic tourism was evident throughout the Brouq event. By offering an array of experiences that cater to both local residents and international visitors, Brouq has become an integral part of Qatar’s year-round events calendar. As one of the country’s most popular outdoor attractions during the winter months, Brouq continues to play a pivotal role in encouraging repeat visitation to Qatar’s diverse destinations.

With each passing year, Brouq evolves to meet the needs and expectations of its audience, ensuring that visitors are consistently offered new and exciting experiences. As Qatar continues to invest in and develop high-quality tourism activations, Brouq stands as a shining example of how the country is making its mark as a top-tier destination for cultural and adventure tourism.

Conclusion

Brouq 2026 has set a new benchmark for outdoor events in Qatar, with record attendance, engaging activities, and cultural richness that appealed to visitors of all ages. By blending adventure, cultural heritage, and family-friendly entertainment, Brouq remains one of Qatar’s most beloved winter activations, offering a unique and unforgettable desert experience for all who attend.

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Thailand and Malaysia Rank as Top Visa-Free Destinations for Indian Travelers in 2026, Leading Over the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Maldives – Everything You Need to Know

Thailand and Malaysia emerge as the top visa-free destinations for Indian travelers in 2026, surpassing the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, according to Agoda’s latest accommodation search data.

According to the latest accommodation search data from the digital travel platform Agoda, Thailand and Malaysia have emerged as the most preferred visa-free international destinations among Indian travelers for 2026. This trend reflects a growing interest in destinations offering easy entry requirements combined with an array of leisure and cultural experiences. Indonesia, while still a favorite, continues to lead as the top destination for visa-on-arrival (VOA) travelers, reinforcing the appeal of hassle-free travel for Indians seeking diverse international experiences.

Agoda’s analysis of accommodation search data from Indian users between January 1 and January 18, 2026, for check-in dates scheduled between February and March 2026, reveals a marked shift towards destinations across Asia that combine accessibility and rich cultural offerings.

Top Destinations with Visa-Free and VOA Status

Thailand, with its visa-free entry for Indian travelers, clinched the top spot as the most searched destination. Known for its vibrant culture, pristine beaches, and diverse adventures, Thailand continues to be a favorite among Indians seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration. Close behind is Indonesia, a VOA destination, which remains the go-to location for travelers looking for an adventure-packed getaway, especially for its world-renowned beaches, jungles, and rich cultural history.

Malaysia and Sri Lanka Rise in Popularity

Malaysia, also offering visa-free entry to Indian passport holders, ranks third in Agoda’s analysis, appealing to travelers seeking both urban experiences and natural beauty. The country’s vibrant cities, complemented by lush rainforests and iconic islands, make it a compelling choice for those looking for a blend of modernity and nature.

Sri Lanka, a destination that offers visa-on-arrival for Indian nationals, recorded the highest year-on-year growth in accommodation searches, with a 61% increase compared to the previous year. This surge is driven by its proximity to India, affordability, and diverse offerings ranging from beaches to cultural landmarks and wildlife. Sri Lanka’s mix of natural beauty and historical significance continues to resonate with travelers looking for both relaxation and adventure.

Maldives and Philippines Show Continued Appeal

The Maldives, which allows visa-free access, continues to captivate Indian travelers in search of short-haul luxury escapes. Its luxurious resorts, crystal-clear waters, and exclusive island experiences make it a favorite for those seeking premium holidays.

The Philippines, another visa-free destination, ranks sixth in the list, with accommodation searches increasing by 73% year-on-year. Popular among beach lovers and adventure seekers, the country’s pristine beaches, water sports, and vibrant marine life remain key attractions for Indian travelers. Its diversity of islands, each with its unique charm, makes the Philippines an ideal vacation destination.

Other Rising Destinations: Nepal, Bhutan, and Laos

Nepal, with its visa-free status, ranks seventh in the list. The country’s scenic beauty, rich cultural heritage, and trekking opportunities continue to draw travelers, especially those interested in spiritual exploration and nature treks.

Kazakhstan, a new entrant on the list, ranks eighth and is gaining traction for its unique Central Asian landscapes. The country’s natural beauty and emerging tourism infrastructure are drawing attention from Indian travelers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Bhutan, which offers visa-free access to Indian citizens, ranks ninth and remains a top choice for those seeking wellness retreats and cultural immersion. Its serene environment and Buddhist heritage continue to attract those looking for a tranquil escape.

Lastly, Laos, a VOA destination, ranks tenth with the highest search growth among all destinations in the list, witnessing a remarkable 97% increase compared to last year. Known for its ancient temples, charming towns, and cultural richness, Laos is positioning itself as an up-and-coming destination in Southeast Asia. Simplified visa access and increasing awareness among Indian travelers are contributing factors to this surge in interest.

The Changing Landscape of Indian Travel Preferences

As Indian travelers continue to prioritize convenience and value for money, destinations that offer easy entry requirements, diverse experiences, and affordability are seeing the highest demand. With the growing awareness of Southeast Asia and Central Asia as prime travel regions, Indian travelers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer both cultural depth and recreational opportunities.

Agoda’s data indicates a marked shift towards short-haul international travel, with Indians opting for destinations that provide quick, visa-free access and a mix of relaxation and adventure. The rise in interest toward destinations like Laos, Bhutan, and Kazakhstan reflects a growing appetite for new, culturally rich locations that offer a different kind of travel experience.

Explore a Wide Range of Travel Options on Agoda

Travelers planning their next getaway can explore Agoda’s extensive offerings, which include over 6 million holiday properties, 130,000+ flight routes, and 300,000+ activities across the globe. Whether you’re looking for a luxury resort in the Maldives or a cultural escape to Sri Lanka, Agoda provides deals that make booking your dream vacation easier than ever. For the latest travel deals, visit the Agoda app or head to agoda.com/deals.

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Saudi Arabia Alongside UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait Lead GCC Tourism Growth by Turning Airports into Multi-Country Stopover Destinations

Saudi Arabia, alongside UAE, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait, is driving GCC tourism growth by strategically transforming airports into multi-country stopover destinations, boosting economic diversification and enhancing regional connectivity.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is transforming its airports from mere transit points into thriving tourism hubs, reshaping its economies and tourism industries. Historically seen as brief layover spots, airports in countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Oman are now becoming essential drivers of non-oil growth, hospitality revenues, and job creation. Through a combination of streamlined visa regimes, targeted airline stopover programs, and state-of-the-art infrastructure investments, GCC nations are redefining the travel experience by turning transit passengers into full-fledged tourists.

Investment in Infrastructure and Technology

A major push toward improving passenger experience is happening across the GCC, with airports investing heavily in advanced biometric systems, e-gates, and digital border controls. These innovations aim to expedite passenger processing times and enhance airport efficiency, making short stays more accessible and practical. These initiatives, often supported by public-private partnerships, are closing the gap between passengers’ arrival at airports and their exploration of the surrounding city.

Thanks to these upgrades, travelers can now transition from their flight to a city tour in a matter of hours, even if their layover is less than 48 hours. By improving the speed of entry and departure, these airports are not only facilitating smoother travel but also boosting the potential for short-term tourism, particularly in major transit hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Riyadh.

The GCC Unified Visa: A Game Changer

One of the most anticipated developments in the region is the unified GCC tourist visa, which is currently making its way through final coordination stages. This initiative, approved in principle in 2024, will allow travelers to visit multiple GCC countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, with a single visa. The visa promises to drive a significant increase in stopover tourism by simplifying the travel process for visitors looking to explore more than one country during their trip.

The unified visa is expected to especially benefit Saudi Arabia, which is poised to expand its tourism offerings through its vast historical sites, cultural experiences, and modern cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. Travelers can now visit iconic locations in Saudi Arabia while also enjoying quick trips to neighboring cities like Dubai and Doha, creating multi-destination travel experiences in the Gulf.

Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Surge

Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of this aviation-driven tourism growth, having seen a dramatic increase in visitor numbers in recent years. In 2025, the Kingdom welcomed an estimated 122 million international visitors, nearing its ambitious target of 150 million annual visitors by 2030. With new international routes expanding the Kingdom’s aviation footprint, Saudi Arabia is not only attracting leisure tourists but also positioning itself as a major global hub for air travel.

A crucial component of Saudi Arabia’s strategy has been the introduction of a 96-hour digital stopover visa in 2023. This visa allows travelers on international flights to enter the Kingdom for up to four days, providing ample time for Umrah pilgrimages, visits to cultural sites, and exploration of Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscapes. This policy has enabled the Kingdom to maximize its airport traffic, converting layovers into significant economic activity across the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Short-Stay Tourism Growth Across the GCC

The success of the UAE, particularly Dubai, has set a precedent for other GCC countries to follow. Dubai’s airport, one of the busiest in the world, has become a key player in converting transit passengers into tourists. The city offers a range of curated stopover packages that include hotel stays, cultural experiences, and entertainment options, allowing visitors to explore the city’s landmarks even during a short layover.

Abu Dhabi and Doha have adopted similar strategies, with Qatar positioning itself as a leading stopover destination. Qatar Airways offers a variety of stopover packages that include accommodations, transportation, and city tours, making it easy for passengers to extend their stays and experience the country’s rich cultural heritage. Saudi Arabia’s digital stopover visa further complements these efforts, giving travelers more opportunities to explore while in transit.

The key to success for all these destinations lies in the smooth and seamless transit experience. Fast-track entry processes, intuitive airport layouts, and efficient airport-to-city transport options are critical in ensuring that travelers can make the most of their time. The more frictionless the transition from flight to city exploration, the more likely passengers are to leave the airport and engage in tourism activities.

Designing Integrated Destination Ecosystems

A successful destination is not just about tourism attractions but also about creating an integrated experience that spans the entire journey. From trip planning and booking to arrival and departure, every aspect of the traveler’s experience must be carefully coordinated. In the GCC, this means close collaboration between tourism authorities, airports, airlines, transport providers, and experience operators.

For developers like Red Sea Global, which is spearheading the creation of next-generation destinations in Saudi Arabia, the focus is on designing tourism environments that appeal to global travelers. This means crafting spaces that are not only accessible but also provide meaningful experiences that resonate with visitors, whether they’re here for a day or a week.

Airports as Destination Brands

The shift from airports as mere transit hubs to integral parts of the destination brand is a fundamental change in how the GCC is approaching tourism. By positioning airports as key components of the visitor experience, countries in the region are building world-class travel gateways that draw travelers into their cities and cultures. Investments in cutting-edge airport facilities, such as digital wayfinding and streamlined services, help ensure that travelers have a smooth and pleasant transition from flight to exploration.

The unified GCC tourist visa, coupled with investments in sustainable infrastructure, walkable districts, and waterfront developments, will further strengthen the region’s tourism appeal. As a result, airports are transforming from simple points of departure into economic engines that drive tourism spending, create jobs, and contribute to the long-term diversification of the region’s economy.

Conclusion

The transformation of GCC airports into tourism gateways is a clear reflection of the region’s broader economic diversification strategy. By capitalizing on stopover tourism, GCC nations are not only turning airports into bustling hubs of economic activity but also enhancing their global appeal as travel destinations. With investments in seamless transit experiences, unified visa systems, and integrated tourism offerings, the Gulf is positioning itself as a key player in the future of international tourism. This approach will continue to drive economic growth, create jobs, and provide visitors with unique travel experiences that extend beyond the airport terminal.

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South African Passport Now Grants Access to 101 Destinations, Including Kenya, Bolivia, and New Southeast Asia Deals

The South African passport now opens doors to 101 destinations, with exciting new visa-free access to Kenya and Bolivia, along with enhanced travel deals in Southeast Asia.

As 2026 unfolds, South African travellers have reason to celebrate with exciting new developments in the global travel landscape. The South African passport now offers visa-free access to 101 destinations worldwide, as per the latest 2026 Passport Index rankings. This includes a combination of visa-free entry, visa-on-arrival, and e-visa/ETA options, making spontaneous travel plans easier and more accessible than ever before. With 59 countries granting full visa-free access, South Africans can now pack their bags and embark on international adventures without the hassle of pre-travel visa applications.

Key Additions: Kenya and Bolivia Join the Visa-Free List

Among the standout highlights of the 2026 updates are two major destinations that South Africans can now visit without the need for a traditional visa.

Kenya: After years of fluctuating visa requirements, Kenya has officially reinstated visa-free access for South Africans, allowing stays of up to 90 days. This shift is a huge win for South African travellers, especially those looking to explore East Africa’s stunning safari destinations, including the famous Masai Mara and the beaches of Mombasa. Whether you’re keen on witnessing the Great Migration or relaxing by the Indian Ocean, Kenya is now more accessible than ever.

Bolivia: South America has become even more inviting with Bolivia officially joining the ranks of visa-free countries for South African passport holders. The country now offers 90-day stays without the need for costly embassy paperwork. This opens up possibilities for visiting Bolivia’s extraordinary landscapes, such as the Salar de Uyuni salt flats and the Andean mountain ranges. Travellers will need to present their valid passport, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, proof of onward travel, and evidence of accommodation for the first night upon arrival.

A Few Setbacks: Loss of Seamless Access to Five Countries

While the updates bring significant benefits, the Henley Passport Index also notes that South Africa has lost seamless access to five countries due to shifts in diplomatic relationships over the past year. These countries—Mauritania, Nigeria, Pakistan, Kosovo, and Palestine—now require additional pre-travel authorisations or have become subject to more restrictive visa requirements, adding a layer of complexity for South African travellers to navigate in the future.

Southeast Asia: New Partnerships Boost Travel Opportunities

Southeast Asia is also proving to be an increasingly important region for South African travellers. As part of South Africa’s efforts to maintain its strong tourism growth, Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indonesia’s Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana in February 2026. This agreement, finalized during de Lille’s Southeast Asia tour—which also included stops in Singapore and Malaysia—has the potential to enhance travel opportunities between South Africa and the region.

For South Africans, the MoU promises several key benefits:

• Streamlined Immigration: The agreement aims to reduce “barrier” checks at immigration, making it easier for South African travellers to enter Indonesia.
• Halal Tourism Focus: Both nations will work to encourage Halal tourism, catering to South African visitors and fostering better cultural exchange.
• Enhanced Travel Connectivity: The MoU includes plans to fast-track the launch of direct flight routes between Cape Town and Jakarta, reducing travel time and making Indonesia even more accessible.

Beyond these travel benefits, the MoU also sets the stage for a broader collaboration. The two nations will exchange knowledge on eco-friendly park management, offer exchange programs for hospitality students, and encourage joint investments in infrastructure. Furthermore, the partnership aims to promote lesser-known destinations in both countries, moving beyond the popular spots of Bali and Cape Town to highlight more hidden gems in both nations.

The Future of South African Travel

The recent developments in global travel access and partnerships highlight a bright future for South African tourism. With easier access to a growing number of destinations and strengthened ties with countries like Indonesia, the possibilities for South African travellers are expanding rapidly. Whether exploring the African continent, venturing into South America, or discovering the beauty of Southeast Asia, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for international travel from South Africa.

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U.S. Travel Industry Calls for Urgent Congressional Action to Prevent Shutdown Impact on TSA and Travel

As a potential U.S. government shutdown looms, travel industry leaders warn that TSA funding lapses could disrupt spring break, causing delays, missed flights, and economic damage.

As the U.S. nears the potential risk of another government shutdown, a crucial concern arises just ahead of one of the busiest travel periods of the year—spring break. The looming uncertainty over funding for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has prompted a joint statement from key industry players, including U.S. Travel, Airlines for America, and the American Hotel & Lodging Association. They have voiced alarm over the potentially disruptive effects of a funding lapse on the travel sector, particularly for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees and the broader travel ecosystem.

In a statement, industry leaders emphasized the vital role that TSA personnel play in ensuring smooth air travel and public safety. The risk of essential TSA workers being forced to work without pay could lead to numerous issues, including increased absenteeism, call-outs, and ultimately, longer wait times for travelers. This situation, if not addressed, could result in higher chances of flight delays and cancellations, exacerbating an already stressful travel experience.

The travel industry has previously experienced firsthand the consequences of such funding lapses. During the 43-day shutdown the previous year, TSA personnel continued to work despite not being paid, a show of resilience that the organizations commend. However, the prolonged uncertainty significantly strained the system, causing a ripple effect across the travel sector. The ripple extended beyond just airports—hotels, airlines, and countless small businesses within the travel ecosystem suffered due to disrupted operations.

These shutdowns also have an enduring economic impact. Last year, the 43-day shutdown alone resulted in a staggering loss of $6 billion in economic activity, equating to nearly $140 million per day. The disruptions affected more than 6 million travelers, many of whom experienced delays and cancellations due to the understaffing of TSA checkpoints. With major events like America’s 250th anniversary and the 2026 World Cup approaching, these disruptions not only threaten the smooth flow of travelers but also jeopardize the nation’s ability to capitalize on the economic opportunities these high-profile events will generate.

As such, the need for a resolution is urgent. The statement from U.S. Travel, Airlines for America, and the American Hotel & Lodging Association stresses that Congress must take immediate action to ensure that TSA is fully funded and equipped to carry out its critical security functions. The joint statement strongly advocates for the passage of the Keep America Flying Act (S. 3031/H.R. 5851), a bipartisan proposal that would guarantee TSA officers and air traffic controllers receive pay during funding lapses. This legislation, they argue, is a common-sense solution to ensure that the nation’s aviation security personnel are properly compensated and the country’s air travel operations remain uninterrupted.

The statement concludes by underscoring the importance of securing a stable and reliable funding framework for essential federal workers, not just for the benefit of travelers but for the broader economy. A failure to act quickly could have long-term ramifications, hindering the nation’s preparedness and modernization efforts, and putting at risk the tourism, travel, and hospitality sectors that support millions of American jobs. The travel industry, which relies on smooth operations and certainty in funding, urges Congress to prioritize the passage of the Keep America Flying Act and prevent further disruption to the nation’s critical infrastructure.

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