US-based travel agency air ticket sales totaled $10 billion in January, a 7% increase from January 2025. The January 2026 total marks the first time monthly travel agency air ticket sales have eclipsed $10 billion since ARC began tracking data.
Steve Solomon, chief commercial officer, said, “January’s agency air ticket sales reflect the optimism for continued travel demand expressed by several North American airlines in their recent earnings calls.” The travel agency channel, he said, “remains a key driver of airline revenue, particularly as travelers show sustained interest in international destinations and premium cabin offerings.”
Passenger trips issued through leisure-focused travel agencies in January increased 6% year over year, while passenger trips issued through corporate agencies and online travel agencies decreased 3% and 4%, respectively.
Domestic trips in the US were up 42% month over month and 4% year over year. International trips were up 32% month over month and 8% year over year.
The average ticket price in January was $581, up 2% month over month and up 4% year over year. The average economy class ticket price was $516, up 3% month over month and up 7% year over year. The average premium class ticket price was $1,406, flat month over month and up 3% year over year.
NDC transactions accounted for 20% of the total ARC-settled transactions in January — up from 16.5% in January 2025. A total of 1,207 travel agencies reported NDC transactions during the month.
