U.S. travel agencies reach record airfare sales in 2025
Strong international demand and late domestic recovery signal momentum heading into 2026
U.S.-based travel agencies sold a record $100.4 billion in airline tickets in 2025, according to new data from Airlines Reporting Corp., marking the highest annual total ever recorded. Total passenger trips rose to 292.2 million, driven by particularly strong growth in international travel and a late-year rebound in domestic demand. Despite a slow start for U.S. domestic routes amid economic uncertainty, demand recovered toward the end of the year. A strong December finish reinforced industry confidence going into 2026, supported by several major global and national events.
Key takeaways
- Record-breaking ticket sales: U.S. travel agencies achieved $100.4 billion in airfare sales in 2025, the highest annual total on record despite only modest year-over-year growth.
- Overall passenger growth: Total air passenger trips increased by three percent to 292.2 million, reflecting sustained demand across global air travel markets.
- International travel strength: International trips rose by four percent to 109.7 million, aligning with airline reports of consistently strong long-haul and cross-border demand.
- Domestic travel recovery: U.S. domestic trips grew by two percent to 183.2 million after a sluggish start to the year caused by economic concerns and cautious leisure spending.
- Strong year-end momentum: December 2025 saw airfare sales and passenger trips rise by seven percent year over year, signaling renewed consumer confidence.
- Positive outlook for 2026: Major events such as the FIFA World Cup, the U.S. 250th anniversary, and the Route 66 centennial are expected to further stimulate air travel demand.
Source: Airlines Reporting Corp.
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