ARC: Record breaking month for agency air sales
US travel agencies had a record-breaking January for air ticket sales.
Combined, they generated $10 billion in air sales for the first time ever, according to Airlines Reporting Corp (ARC) data.
It represents a 7% increase from a year ago and nearly 40% up from the previous month of December 2025.
“January’s agency air ticket sales reflect the optimism for continued travel demand,” said Steve Solomon, ARC chief commercial officer.
“The travel agency channel remains a key driver of airline revenue, particularly as travelers show sustained interest in international destinations.”
The overall number of passenger trips was also up 6%, with international flights increasing by 8%.
Ticket prices also went up in January with average economy prices rising by 7% and 3% for premium.
January 2026 also saw a steady increase in NDC air ticket transactions, now representing about 20% of all ARC-settled ticket transactions.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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