The Trump Effect on Travel

As U.S. President Donald Trump continues to shape the political and economic landscape, the impact of his choices on the travel industry remains significant. Read how his actions and policies are shaping the future of travel, and get insights into the industry’s evolving response.

California National Guardsmen with protective shields standing on top of steps with pro-immigrant protesters gathered below.

Tourism

Los Angeles Immigration Protests Spur Some Travelers to Change Plans

International tourists viewing the headlines from Los Angeles and other big U.S. cities may decide to skip the hassle and vacation elsewhere. The U.S. keeps giving tourists reasons to not visit.

Dennis Schaal | 12 months ago

Skift Meetings launch

Planners Fear Immigration Crackdowns Will Make Hotel Labor Shortages Worse: Exclusive Survey

The hospitality industry has struggled with a labor shortage since the Covid pandemic. Now, immigration enforcement and an anti-immigrant sentiment are adding a new layer of complexity.

Andrea Doyle | 12 months ago

Corner exterior of an office building surrounded by green grass.

Airlines

Senators Grill Trump’s FAA Pick Over Pilot Training

Although Bedford has broad industry support, some Democrats and pilots’ unions are concerned about his stances on pilot training requirements.

Meghna Maharishi | 12 months ago

A British Airways A380 flying over the Cliffs of Dover in the UK.

Airlines

U.S. Demand Is Recovering After Trump ‘Liberation Day’ Hit, Says IAG CEO

Despite political noise and some short-term booking softness, IAG appears bullish on U.S. demand. CEO Luis Gallego says the real problem isn’t a “Trump Slump,” but a shortage of aircraft throttling global growth.

Gordon Smith | 12 months ago

Skift Meetings launch

Tariffs, Riots, Travel Bans: Contract Language to Protect Planners

Tariff-driven price increases and international attendee cancellations can cost companies big bucks — unless they’ve addressed these in their contacts.

Barbara Scofidio | 12 months ago

Hotels

IHG CEO Sees U.S. Travel ‘Bounce Back,’ Targets Asia for Expansion

IHG’s confidence in domestic U.S. travel and bullish outlook on China suggest it’s more focused on geographic diversification than short-term headwinds. Its message: the turbulence is real, but not enough to stop the long-haul growth.

Luke Martin | 12 months ago

Skift Meetings launch

Exclusive Survey: Planners Face Rising Costs and Uncertainty Amidst Trump Policy Shifts

New research by Skift Meetings shows that planners are grappling with the effects of Trump Administration policies on their events — with 9 out of 10 expressing concern about rising costs due to tariffs.

Barbara Scofidio | 12 months ago

Breeze Founder CEO David Neeleman at Skift Global Forum

Airlines

Breeze CEO on Low-Cost Carriers’ Future and ‘The Piss-Off Factor’ Keeping Tourists Away

The drop in interest in traveling to the U.S. is real, and it very well may fade as Breeze's CEO says. But repairing the brand damage will take time.

Meghna Maharishi | 1 year ago

Tourism

Brand USA Funding Would Be Slashed by 80% in Senate Republican Proposal

Ever since its creation in 2010 to be the country's destination marketing organization, Brand USA has faced potential cuts and even threats of elimination.

Dennis Schaal | 1 year ago

A crowded airport tarmac and air traffic control tower

Airlines

Reagan National Airport to Close for Army Parade — Expect Travel Delays

The parade, which coincides with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday, is expected to shut down Reagan National for several hours.

Meghna Maharishi | 1 year ago