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Protect Group targets $10 billion in protected bookings

Tuesday, 24 March 20263 min read
Protect Group targets $10 billion in protected bookings

Protect Group, which provides reservation and ticket protection solutions, has set a goal to protect over $10 billion in bookings by the end of 2026.

This represents a 25% year on year increase.

Protect Group works with airlines, OTAs, events, sports, and hospitality brands.

The goal reflects the rising demand for flexible, integrated solutions that protect travellers against unexpected disruptions in their travel plans such as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

In some cases, regional air traffic has dropped up to 50% of normal levels, notably in major hubs like Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi.

Protect Group’s growth is fueled by strategic partnerships with key industry players, including airlines, OTAs, ticketing operators, and hotels, and leverages artificial intelligence to improve booking conversion.

Today, it says around 75% of refund requests are processed and paid the same day, streamlining operations while retaining human support for cases requiring personalised attention.

“The travel industry is evolving faster than ever with travellers and operators alike expecting flexibility,” says Jason Walsh, Chief Product & Marketing Officer at Protect Group.

“Reservation and ticket protection is essential when disruptions occur. The conflict in the Middle East, for instance, has forced OTAs, travel agencies, airlines, and event organisers to handle mass cancellations and sudden itinerary changes. Our integrated solutions allow customers to travel with confidence, while helping our partners increase conversion and retain clients.”

Protect Group’s offering includes Refund Protect, which allows customers to upgrade their tickets for a full refund in unforeseen circumstances beyond their control.

This is powered by the AI-driven Pulse platform, which integrates with existing systems.

It also offers Protect Plus, a portfolio of ancillary services including flight delay compensation, delayed baggage compensation, carbon offsetting, eSIM solutions, and lounge access.

Protect Group recently launched the Agent Portal, enabling travel agencies and advisors to offer reservation protection quickly and easily, without technical integration.

This opens new opportunities in sectors such as cruises and tours, where over 80% of bookings are made through traditional agencies.

Additionally, integration with Aven Hospitality (formerly Sabre Hospitality) allows rapid onboarding of hotel chains, accelerating expansion in the hospitality sector.