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There is a saying in the Caribbean that when the U.S. sneezes, the islands catch a cold … or worse. It appeared that the Caribbean might suffer a full-blown’ flu epidemic’ at the start of the year, when the U.S. military action in Venezuela resulted in airspace restrictions and widespread flight cancellations across the region. Politics aside, thousands of travelers were stranded during a peak travel period, impacting both stay-over and cruise visitors. See which islands were impacted, and how stakeholders rushed to accommodate tourists when the flight restrictions were eased. Page 1.
The Caribbean Tourism Organization – which emphasized that the region has extensive experience managing external disruptions – reports that all parts of the Caribbean are now back in business, although some reports indicate political uncertainty is causing some tourists to change or cancel travel plans to the region. Page 1.
The end of an era. In more sad news, DFS has announced that it will close all its stores in Hawaii after 63 years in business. Page 1.
ASSOCIATION NEWS
2026 ASUTIL Conference. ASUTIL has announced that early-access registration for the 25th Conference is now open for those who attended last year’s event. The Conference will take place June 2-5 at the Paradisus Palma Real / Melia Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. More details on page 1.
TFWA reveals “New Era of Innovation” theme of reimagined Asia Pacific Exhibition & Conference for 2026 to take place May 10-14, in Singapore. Page 4
US-CANADA CROSS-BORDER TRAFFIC
Cross-border travel between the United States and Canada continues to suffer as Canadians “boycott” visits to its southern neighbor in protest of U.S. political decisions. OAG quantifies the decline in air traffic between the two North American countries, as airlines adjust capacity downward to reflect current sentiment. Page 2
Meanwhile, a coalition of major North American tourism associations are urging government leaders to reconsider policies affecting cross-border travel. The Beyond Borders Tourism Coalition reports that Canadian trips to the U.S. by car dropped 20% in 2025, with some states reporting campground reservations from Canadians down more than 70%. See full story on page 2.
PEOPLE & COMPANY NEWS
Carnival Corp.’s Josh Weinstein named chair of CLIA’s Global Executive Committee. Page 3
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport names new managing director. Page 3
René Machon joins Blue Caterpillar as Commercial Director Europe. Page 3
Jim Beam shuts down production one of its Kentucky distilleries for 2026 as it invests in improvements. Page 4
AIRPORTS & CRUISE PORTS
LAX Tom Bradley International Terminal to reveals modernization plans to be completed in tie for 2028 Olympic Games. Page 5.
Avolta wins 10-year contracts for Hudson and HMSHost at Palm Beach International Airport. Page 5
PortMiami sets new passenger record. Page 5.
