Skift

Today’s outage ancross Amazon Web Services (AWS) disrupted operations for major travel companies, underscoring the industry's deep reliance on AWS cloud infrastructure. AWS powers critical systems for airlines, hotels, OTAs, and car rental firms, offering far more than data storage by integrating AI and supporting core business functions. The incident highlighted both the benefits and vulnerabilities of the travel sector's increasing shift to cloud-based solutions, as companies work toward more interoperable and AI-driven travel experiences. https://hubs.li/Q03Pqj1k0

The next generation of travelers is savvy, cost-conscious, and painfully aware of travel disruption risks. As such, they’re more receptive to overtures for travel protection, which address their need for better customer care. In our new report, sponsored by Allianz Partners, learn how partnerships that provide more peace of mind can increase customer loyalty. https://hubs.li/Q03PnM_d0 Sponsored by Allianz Partners

Brand USA Targets 9 Countries with New Tourism Campaign Amid Travel Slump: - Brand USA has launched the 'America the Beautiful' campaign targeting nine major international markets amid declining inbound tourism and significant federal funding cuts. - The campaign features digital advertising, immersive video content, and a new multilingual trip-planning website with AI-powered itinerary tools. - Despite funding challenges and layoffs, Brand USA recently resolved a federal funding lapse and continues to promote U.S. tourism ahead of major events like the World Cup and America's 250th anniversary. https://hubs.li/Q03PkZyz0

At Skift Global Forum 2025, Dart Interests president Chris Kelsey explained how Evermore Orlando is breaking the vacation rental mold. The resort blends group-ready vacation homes with the benefits of a branded hotel, offering: Residences for 4–11 bedrooms with hotel-level service A Caribbean-style beach and diverse dining options An emphasis on connection over activity overload Kelsey framed Evermore’s ethos as “relational wellness” — designing experiences that help guests relax and connect. With future expansions in the works, Evermore could shape a new hospitality category. See Kelsey’s full interview on stage with Skift CEO Rafat Ali: https://hubs.li/Q03Pk_-R0 Sponsored by Dart Interests

According to Skift Research’s latest Middle East and North Africa Traveler Trends 2025 report, 86 percent of travelers in the region would choose one destination over another if it hosts a major live event. If experiences are shaping demand, how is your brand adapting? Join us in Abu Dhabi next week at Skift Global Forum East to explore how live events are shifting traveler behavior - and what that means for your destination strategy, brand relevance, and bottom line: https://hubs.li/Q03PhtQr0

- United Airlines reduced its management workforce by 4% due to AI adoption and plans a further 4% cut in 2026. - Lufthansa and other airlines are also using AI to streamline operations, with Lufthansa planning to cut 4,000 jobs by 2030. - Other U.S. airlines are using AI for operations, pricing, and customer service, but have not announced job cuts linked to AI. https://hubs.li/Q03Ph2dr0

We’re pleased to welcome Stefan Leser, CEO of أديرا للضيافة | Adeera Hospitality - a PIF Company, to the stage at Skift Global Forum East, taking place next week in Abu Dhabi. Stefan’s career spans leadership roles at some of the world’s most prominent hospitality brands including Jumeirah Group, Langham Hospitality Group, Katara Hospitality Switzerland, and Kuoni Travel Holding. Now at the helm of Adeera, he’s guiding its growth and positioning in Saudi Arabia and beyond. Join us: https://hubs.li/Q03PgYvl0

New Issue Preview: Virgin Atlantic is getting a new captain, but can he steer the airline toward lasting profitability? As longtime CEO Shai Weiss prepares to step down, Corneel Koster inherits a carrier with a famous brand, deep-pocketed partners, but a shaky financial record. In this Airline Weekly feature story, we unpack the daunting to-do list awaiting Koster and his team. https://hubs.li/Q03PgfcS0

Mandarin Oriental is going private in $4.2 billion deal. Here are the details: - Jardine Matheson is acquiring full ownership of Mandarin Oriental, valuing the hotel group at $4.2 billion and planning to take it private. - Mandarin Oriental is expanding aggressively under CEO Laurent Kleitman, targeting 80-100 properties in the next decade and shifting to an asset-light model. - The company recently refreshed its brand, launched a new app, and revamped its loyalty program to support growth and customer engagement. https://hubs.li/Q03Pgdmt0

Thank you to all of our sponsors of this week's Skift Transatlantic Summit! We appreciate your partnership in making the event a success!