GCC Tourism Hits $254.7B and Hosts Innovation Workshop in Muscat 2026
The GCC tourism sector contributed $254.7 billion in 2025, supported by 75.7 million arrivals and $131.9 billion in spending. A 2026 Muscat workshop focused on improving regional tourism data integration and quality.
Nine US Airports Under FAA Delay Programmes on September 5, CLT Ground Stop Longest
On September 5, 2026, nine US airports operated under FAA delay programmes, with Charlotte Douglas International facing the longest ground stop. San Diego recorded the highest peak delay during a security-related ground delay.
FAA Ground Stop Hits Six Northeast Airports Including LaGuardia on Sept. 5
The FAA imposed a ground stop at six major Northeast airports including LaGuardia on September 5, 2026, driven by severe thunderstorms. American Airlines is among the carriers with thousands of flight cancellations and delays today.
Holland America Updates Ocean Bar on Oosterdam After Evolution Refurbishment
Holland America Line has refreshed the Ocean Bar aboard Oosterdam following its Evolution refurbishment. The update includes a new stage, relocated bar, and recycled fabric furnishings.
Carnival Splendor Alters Itinerary at Cairns Port Over Shallow Channel
Carnival Cruise Line has altered the Carnival Splendor itinerary due to shallow channel conditions at the Cairns cruise port. Passengers should update their plans for the Cairns stop.
China Sees 32% Growth in Hourly Hotel Bookings as Cinemas and KTVs Enter Market
Hourly hotel room bookings in China rose 32% year-on-year since 2024, driven mainly by users born in the 1990s and 2000s. Cinemas, KTVs, and bath centers are attracting short-stay customers with cheaper, more flexible offerings.
Norse Atlantic Flight Stalls Runway 26L at London Gatwick, Causing 330+ Delays
A Norse Atlantic Airways flight to New York-JFK was disabled on Runway 26L at London Gatwick on September 4, 2026, causing a 50-minute runway closure. More than 330 flights were delayed and about 3% were cancelled during the disruption.
Saudi Arabia Partners with WTM Spotlight Riyadh for 2026 Tourism Event
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism is the strategic partner of the inaugural WTM Spotlight Riyadh event, scheduled for September 8-10, 2026. The event aims to connect international tourism businesses with Saudi Arabia and support its Vision 2030 tourism targets.
Vietnam Highlights MICE Sector Growth at ITE HCMC 2026 Forum
The ITE HCMC 2026 Tourism Forum held in Ho Chi Minh City gathered 300 delegates focusing on MICE sector development. Vietnamese officials emphasized sustainability and regional cooperation during the event.
TSA Activates First Touchless Biometric E-Gates at Newark Liberty Terminal C
TSA launched the first touchless biometric e-gates for TSA PreCheck passengers in Terminal C at Newark Liberty Airport in September 2026. CBP also introduced facial recognition processing at Bermuda's preclearance, while Denver International Airport started accepting mobile driver’s licenses for ID verification.














