U.S. travel agency air ticket sales reached $9.8 billion in May 2026, coming close to the $10 billion target. This represents a 15% rise compared to May 2025, as reported by the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC). Passenger trips through ARC remained at 25.7 million, the same as in May 2025. The numbers indicate a recovery in the hospitality sector following pandemic disruptions.
The data shows travelers are adapting to changing economic and political conditions. Steve Solomon, ARC’s chief commercial officer, explained that demand for air travel is steady. “People continue to make trips despite broader changes,” he added. The summer travel season, usually a busy time, appears to be starting with strong momentum.
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NDC transactions — a newer booking method used by many agencies — accounted for 21.6% of all ARC-settled transactions in May 2026. This is slightly higher than 21.4% in May 2025. Almost 1,200 travel agencies reported NDC activity during the month.
Average ticket prices for economy class trips through ARC increased compared to previous years. Premium class tickets, including first and business class, also showed similar trends. Prices depend on demand, fuel costs, and airline competition. The data does not include direct purchases from airlines, which are excluded from ARC’s calculations.
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The 25.7 million passenger trips counted by ARC cover both domestic and international journeys. The count adjusts for refunds and cancellations, showing actual travelers.
Total sales figures include taxes and fees, giving a full cost breakdown for consumers. The $9.8 billion total represents payments by agencies and their clients, not just ticket prices. This distinction helps understand financial flows in the travel sector. ARC’s data comes from 9,865 U.S. retail and corporate travel agencies, including online platforms. Direct airline sales are not included, focusing only on agency-mediated transactions.
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The consistent numbers show travelers are not delaying trips despite uncertainty. “People still choose to travel,” he said. This stability contrasts with the pandemic’s early years, when restrictions and infection fears reduced bookings. Now, the industry has adapted, even with challenges like inflation and geopolitical tensions.
ARC’s findings are part of ongoing efforts to track travel trends. The organization releases monthly reports, offering insights into sector changes. For now, the $9.8 billion figure serves as a benchmark. Whether it increases or stays the same will depend on factors like economic conditions, airline capacity, and consumer confidence. The industry is watching closely, but current numbers show resilience and progress.