As the world gears up for monumental events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics, the U.S. Travel Association is on the forefront of advocating for changes that will shape the travel landscape. These significant global gatherings are poised to attract an influx of up to 40 million international visitors. However, the current state of the U.S. air travel infrastructure raises concerns about whether it can handle such a surge. A systematic enhancement of our airports and travel technology—including crucial staff and biometric systems—is absolutely essential to prevent chaos, ensuring a seamless experience for travelers.
Geoff Freeman, the CEO of U.S. Travel Association, emphasizes that the time is ripe for investment in our travel systems, despite recent government trends toward austerity. While some may view infrastructure funding as counter to the Trump administration’s spending cuts, Freeman argues for a focus on initiatives with clear returns on investment. This isn’t merely about spending; it’s about laying the groundwork for sustained economic growth and improved travel experiences. Given the admin’s enthusiasm for hosting events of such global significance, the expectation for them to allocate funds for travel infrastructure isn’t just reasonable; it’s imperative.
Biometrics: A Game-Changer for Air Travel
One pivotal area of focus is the implementation of biometric technology in airports. Freeman advocates strongly for this, citing its nearly flawless accuracy compared to outdated methods such as traditional ID checks. The safety and efficiency that biometrics can provide are essential outcomes that any administration should embrace. Given the potential risks associated with manual checks—where IDs have about a 70% accuracy—the shift to biometric systems could serve as a critical tool not just for managing large crowds but for enhancing national security. Amidst a backdrop of rising travel concerns, biometric technology stands out as not just beneficial, but crucial.
Freeman also addresses tensions that have arisen from Trump’s trade policies, particularly regarding relations with Canada and Mexico. The implications of international travel extend beyond just numbers—they encompass perceptions and feelings. The notion that policy decisions can deter potential travelers requires a strategic response. The U.S. Travel Association holds that the welcoming environment of the United States is reflected in operational practices, like visa processing and the hospitality offered by everyday Americans. Underestimating the significance of these factors risks overlooking the real-time experience travelers have as they enter the country.
Another pressing issue raised is the absence of a dedicated leader or agency for travel policy within the federal structure, a fact that Freeman pointed out by comparing the U.S. to its G20 counterparts. While a position for an Assistant Secretary of Tourism was created in 2022, it remains unfilled—a gap that could stymie the progress needed during this pivotal era for travel. A White House task force, he suggests, could provide the centralized focus necessary to navigate these complexities, ensuring travel is prioritized in national policy discussions and resource allocations.
Challenges in travel infrastructure are not merely bureaucratic issues; they are symptomatic of a broader need for modernization. As air travel becomes increasingly congested and travelers demand higher standards, the call for reform cannot be overstated. Freeman’s perspective sheds light on the delicate balancing act required to harmonize economic growth with effective resource management. It invites a more profound examination of what investments are not just desirable but essential for future success.
In ultimately navigating the complexities of international travel, the U.S. must embrace a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes enhancement over stagnation. The upcoming decade represents a significant opportunity for the United States to reframe its travel policies and infrastructure to support not merely the influx of tourists, but to enhance the broader global perception of American hospitality.