For the latest in can’t miss travel news, we cover levitating trains, travel market projections, the ultimate flight experience and more. Wondering what your business travel expenses might look like in 2025? Read what the CEO of Global Business Travel Forecast has to say. Dreaming of a 30-minute commute from Los Angeles to San Francisco? We have an update on how that’s inching closer to reality. Read on for our other top picks in this week’s travel updates.
Global Business Travel: Events Costs Moderating in 2024, with Continued Modest Increases in 2025
The 2025 Global Business Travel Forecast released yesterday revealed that costs of global business travel and events continue to rise, but at a slower rate than they have been over the last few years. Favorable market conditions coupled with a balanced growth trajectory have supported this downward trend, though meeting profs aren’t in the clear. Suzanne Neufang, CEO of GBTA said, “The research shows that while a more stable period for travel costs is likely, businesses should remain vigilant to evolving pricing dynamics influenced by global trends. The next few years will require a strategic approach that balances cost management with sustainability, innovation and responsiveness to market changes.”
Futuristic Hyperloop Transit Technology Successfully Passes Early Tests
Looking to travel via magnetic force? A revolutionary approach to mass transit is closer than ever to becoming a reality thanks to Hyperloop, a developing technology that transports passengers in capsules across magnetic fields inside of depressurized tubes—or, in layman’s terms, via levitation. A 460-yard tube comprised of 34 sections located at the European Hyperloop Center in the Netherlands includes a high-powered vacuum pump that reduces internal pressure, which in turn lowers drag and facilitates speeds up to 435 mph—though the most recent testing was conducted at 18 mph across roughly 100 meters of pipe. Roel van de Pas, commercial director of Hardt Hyperloop, described the testing hurdles by saying, “The most difficult things that we are doing now is to test all of these functions together. Levitation, propulsion, guidance, all of those functions we are now capable of executing as an orchestra, making them work together.” While the latest test results are far from a green light, we look forward to the day when a trip to Los Angeles from San Francisco takes only 30 minutes.
Pan Am Adds Second Itinerary to 2025 Schedule
All lie-flat seats, golden-era continental cuisine, an open bar and more? For a measly $59,950 you too can experience Pan Am’s private Boeing 757-200 aircraft—and new seats just opened up. Following the announcement of a June 27 to July 9, 2025 journey departing from New York with stops in Bermuda, Lisbon, Marseille, London and Foynes in Ireland, the airline has added a second, identical itinerary scheduled for June 15 – 17. Upon landing, passengers will settle in at luxury hotels such as The Savoy in London and the Four Seasons in Lisbon, then head out for exclusive excursions, including a private tour of Kensington Palace. The just-shy-of-$60,000 price tag covers all flights, accommodations, most meals and drinks, and branded merchandise.
Cancun International Airport Balances Sustainability Commitment with Expanded Routes
Cancun’s airport has spurred an increase in tourism throughout the Mexican Caribbean by introducing direct flights from key cities in the U.S. and Canada as part of a joint effort with Quintana Roo’s tourism officials. Sustainability is a key consideration when designing expansion and future development, such as a commitment to protecting the region’s natural landscape while upgrading infrastructure to accommodate transportation to popular destinations like Playa del Carmen, Costa Mujeres and Cozumel. The airport itself reflects eco-consciousness with its renewable energy systems and water conservation measures as an effort to meet rising global sustainability standards. “Our goal is to provide seamless access to the full range of experiences the Mexican Caribbean offers…Cancun International Airport is at the heart of this growth, ensuring that millions of travelers can enjoy a more efficient and environmentally responsible visit,” said Bernardo Cueto, state secretary of tourism for Quintana Roo, in a statement.
Business Travel Startup Reaches $2.1 Billion Valuation Following $140 Million Series C
Denver-based business travel search platform Engine, rebranded from the former Hotel Engine, has been given a $2.1 billion valuation by private equity firm Permira, representing a 62% jump from $1.3 billion in 2021. The search engine provides business travelers with over 750,000 hotels, 300 airlines and 40 rental car companies; providers then use Engine for special offers to customers, reservation management and marketing. Its 70% year-over-year growth in revenue has solidified its trajectory of success, and much of the $140 million gained in this most recent round of financing will be put toward product development and a stronger focus on airline and rental car bookings. Engine CEO Elia Wallen said in a statement, “Hotel bookings will always be in our DNA, but we’re out to transform the entire travel experience. We want to become the engine of business travel. Our new name will reflect that, and with Permira’s latest investment, we’ll be better positioned than ever to turn our ambitions into reality.”
