This week, the world of travel business converges at the Skift Global Forum 2025 in New York City, in what promises to be the largest and most consequential edition of this marquee event. With more than 1,000 top-flight executives, founders, and visionaries from airlines, hotels, OTAs, financial markets, and technology companies in attendance, the forum sets the agenda for an industry standing at the crossroads of transformative change.

Founded in 2014, the Global Forum has established itself as the preeminent thought leadership conference in travel. The 2025 event could not have arrived at a more pivotal time: leaders are grappling with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, shifting consumer expectations, sustainability imperatives, and the aftermath of macro events such as pandemic-era disruptions and global economic instability.

AI, Automation, and the Digital Traveller

One of the central themes on the 2025 stage is the continuing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation in travel operations and customer service. From generative AI tools that personalize the traveler journey to predictive analytics refining revenue management, every corner of travel is being reshaped.

Speakers such as Cedar Gladwin, Chief Data Officer at Expedia Group, and Anna Silvestri, CTO of IHG Hotels & Resorts, will outline how AI is enhancing traveler engagement and business agility. According to a 2025 Skift Research survey, over 78% of travel companies are now investing in next-gen AI platforms—a twofold increase from just three years ago.

The forum will also highlight real-world case studies: Delta Air Lines’ use of AI-powered crew scheduling cut operational delays by 13%, while Hilton leverages machine learning to customize offers to loyal guests, boosting engagement and conversion rates.

Macroeconomic Shifts: Inflation, Costs, and New Growth Markets

Macroeconomic headwinds continue to shape travel. With ongoing inflationary pressures, fluctuating energy prices, and currency volatility, the global recovery remains uneven. Notably, leisure travel demand is strong, but corporate travel is yet to return to pre-pandemic volume, forcing companies to reengineer their business models.

Panel discussions featuring Julie Lansing, CFO of Marriott International, and Rajiv Menon, Managing Director, TATA Group, will unpack how brands are optimizing for profitability and resilient supply chains. Emerging markets, particularly in South and Southeast Asia, are profiled as bright spots, with inbound investment in infrastructure and hospitality showing record growth in 2025.

Recent data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) projects global travel and tourism GDP will reach $10 trillion by the end of 2025, eclipsing the previous record from 2019. The Asia-Pacific market, led by India and China, is expected to contribute over 42% of this growth.

Consumer Behavior: Personalization, Wellness, and Experiential Travel

Another headline topic is the evolution of consumer travel behavior. Skift’s just-published Travel Megatrends 2025 Report finds travelers are demanding greater personalization, deeper local experiences, and more sustainable choices. Wellness travel continues its ascent, with airlines and hotels introducing new products centered on health, mindfulness, and work-life balance.

Forum attendees will hear from Linda Chan, CEO of Travelport, about harnessing data to anticipate customer needs, and from Dr. Mark Fisher, Head of Corporate Sustainability at TUI Group, on integrating carbon reduction into the guest experience. Today’s tech-savvy traveler expects seamless, mobile-first booking journeys and hyper-relevant upsells—companies failing to meet these expectations face swift disintermediation by newer, nimble upstarts.

Leadership and Talent in a New Era

A historic labor shortage coupled with new generational expectations is pushing travel leaders to rethink talent acquisition and organizational culture. This year’s Leadership Roundtables will go beyond traditional approaches, featuring sessions on remote team management, DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) strategies, and using technology to amplify employee well-being and development.

The Skift Power Rankings 2025 will be released, recognizing the most influential leaders reshaping the industry. Past participants—including former Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky and Delta CEO Ed Bastian—have championed innovation as the foundation of competitive resilience.

Sustainability: From Rhetoric to Impact

Amid intensifying climate risks and rising consumer scrutiny, sustainable operations move front and center. Airlines are pledging billions toward sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and carbon offset programs, while hotel chains launch circular economy pilots and traceability initiatives. New York City, the 2025 Forum’s host, itself exemplifies how destinations balance tourism growth with environmental and community well-being.

Speakers from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council and Booking.com will discuss new industry-wide sustainability standards and best-in-class green transformations. The call to action: it’s time for measurable impact, not just marketing promises.

Networking, Collaboration, and Looking Ahead

Beyond the stage sessions, Skift Global Forum offers unmatched dealmaking and peer networking opportunities. Private gatherings, investor roundtables, and technology exhibitions will catalyze partnerships and uncover new opportunities.

This year’s forum promises more than just inspiration—it delivers actionable strategies for growth and adaptability. As the world enters a new era of travel, executives leaving New York will be better equipped for innovation, resilience, and transformative leadership.