ROUND-UP: March 09-23, 2026

News nuggets, airlines, hotels/resorts, cruising, tours, events, FAMS/incentives, deals, destinations and more are covered in our weekly round-up of travel industry news you may have missed.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 9:40pm

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This weekly round-up covers a variety of travel industry news, including airlines hiking fares and fuel surcharges, the reopening of U.S. preclearance operations at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, the reinstatement of the U.S. Global Entry program, and updates on airlines, hotels, cruises, tours, attractions, incentives, and events.

Why it matters

This comprehensive round-up provides a snapshot of the key developments and trends impacting the travel industry, helping industry professionals and consumers stay informed on the latest news and changes that could affect their travel plans and business operations.

The details

Airlines across the globe have started to hike fares and fuel surcharges in response to surging oil prices sparked by the war in Iran. Long-awaited U.S. preclearance operations opened at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, allowing travelers to complete U.S. immigration, customs, and agriculture inspections before departure. The U.S. Global Entry program was also reinstated after being suspended in February due to the government shutdown. The World Travel & Tourism Council estimates the conflict in Iran is impacting the Travel & Tourism sector across the Middle East by at least $600 million per day in international visitor spending. Other news includes Transat A.T. Inc. shareholders rejecting a bid for control, WestJet and Transat receiving approvals for new codeshare routes, American Airlines resuming flights to Venezuela, and various deals, tours, hotel openings, and industry events and appointments.

  • The war in Iran enters its 17th day on March 16, 2026.
  • U.S. preclearance operations opened at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.
  • The U.S. Global Entry program was reinstated on Wednesday, February 22, 2026 amidst the U.S. government shutdown.
  • Transat A.T. Inc. held its annual meeting in downtown Montreal.
  • Universal Volcano Bay Nights will take place on select nights from May 3 through Aug. 21, 2026.

The players

Pierre Karl Péladeau

The CEO of Quebecor who made a bid to seize effective control of Transat A.T. Inc.'s board, which was rejected by shareholders.

Sylvie Madore

The President and CEO of La Tribu Gourmande, who was appointed to represent the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority in the Quebec and Ottawa markets.

Danièle Bouchard

A Marketing Consultant who was appointed to represent the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority in the Quebec and Ottawa markets.

Michelangelo

The renowned artist whose 'The Last Judgment' fresco in the Sistine Chapel is undergoing its first major restoration in three decades.

Frederick Baldwin

The Canadian who became the first British subject to fly an airplane in 1908, which crashed in Lake Keuka, N.Y.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

This round-up highlights the resilience and adaptability of the travel industry, as it navigates challenges like rising fuel costs, geopolitical tensions, and evolving traveler preferences. Despite these obstacles, the industry continues to innovate, expand, and provide memorable experiences for travelers around the world.