Next year is poised to be an exciting one in many ways for globetrotters, and that includes when it comes to air travel.
What exactly can we expect on the air travel front? Think: Increased global connectivity, more AI in trip planning, and multiplying opportunities for customization.
Those predictions come courtesy of CheapOAir, which has just released a handful of the top air travel trends to watch in 2026.
“Next year, the world is opening wider than ever,” says Thomas Spagnola, senior vice president of partner relationships for CheapOair.”Airlines are expanding international capacity, travelers are looking for new experiences, and technology is making it easier than ever to plan the perfect trip.”
Spagnola also predicts a year of bold journeys as travelers take to the skies in record numbers and explore both well-known destinations and hidden gems.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s on tap.
Global connectivity on the rise
Airline networks are expanding worldwide, setting the stage for unprecedented global connectivity and fueling demand for international travel in 2026, according to CheapOAir. This international focus reflects the mindset of travelers who are seeking still more opportunities for adventure, culture, and connection.
According to the “Global Outlook for Air Transport,” report published by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), global airline capacity is expected to increase by 5 percent in 2026, with Asia-Pacific seeing 7–8 percent growth, the Middle East surging 9 percent, and Latin America rising 6–7 percent.
Europe, meanwhile, will grow moderately at 4 percent, North America will tick up slightly at 1 percent, and Africa will remain largely flat.
AI Takes the Lead in Trip Planning
Technology is increasingly pervasive in our lives and that includes reshaping travel in unprecedented ways. According to Accenture’s Consumer Pulse survey, AI-powered tools will influence more than half of all bookings, helping travelers research destinations, plan itineraries, and even uncover hidden gems faster than ever before.
Booking Behavior Evolves
According to IATA’s 2025 Global Travel Survey, air travelers are embracing smarter, digital-first booking habits.
Mobile apps and integrated tools are now preferred by over half of passengers.
What’s more, according to Google Flights, the traditional pattern of consumers leaving booking until the last moment is shifting: data shows domestic flights are often booked around six weeks ahead, while international travel is planned roughly seven weeks or more in advance.
Together, these behaviors point to a more self-directed, technology-enhanced airline ticket booking process, says CheapOAir.
Customization Becomes King
Travelers will also enjoy more choice in the airline journey itself in 2026. That includes more ancillary flight options from in-cabin pet travel to curated bundles for seats, baggage, Wi-Fi, and airport lounges.
With airlines offering more flexibility and choices, travelers will be able to customize each flight to fit their needs and budget, says CheapOAir.
Destinations to Watch
As for where to go in the coming year, there are many predictions on this front, which have been issued by myriad travel brands and companies.
CheapOair has its own thoughts on the matter. The company’s data points to an intriguing mix of destinations poised for growth.
That includes a handful of international locations surging in popularity in 2026 such as Sardinia, Italy; Okinawa, Japan; Phu Quoc, Vietnam; and Hobart, Australia.
Meanwhile, U.S. travelers are flocking to cities that are experiencing both a surge in airline capacity along with simultaneously hosting major events. The upcoming FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by cities across the United States is just one example of this development. And as part o this convergence of connectivity and major events being on the calendar, cities like Atlanta, Los Angeles, Denver, Orlando, Seattle, and Boston will all be major destinations in 2026.
“From blockbuster concerts and film festivals to championship sports event, U.S. cities are set to draw record crowds as travelers combine cultural experiences with expanded flight options,” says CheapOAir.
How to score savings in 2026
Now onto scoring cheaper tickets in the coming year. According to CheapOAir the key to accomplishing this goal is searching secondary airports for your arrivals and departures.
“While AI handles the logistics, savvy travelers are also discovering the benefits of secondary airports,” says CheapOAir.
Choosing a smaller gateway, like London Gatwick (LGW) instead of Heathrow (LHR) or Orange County (SNA) instead of Los Angeles (LAX) can not only lead to lower fares, but may also deliver less congestion, and new opportunities for exploration along the way.
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