U.S. Tourism Optimism, Aviation Infrastructure Woes and Viceroy Expansion Plans

For today’s podcast we look at April tourism numbers in the U.S. as well as airline traffic control issues, and wrap up the pod with a glimpse at Viceroy’s expansion plans.

Good morning from Skift. It’s Tuesday, May 13. Here’s what you need to know about the business of travel today.

Visits to the U.S. from 20 major countries — most notably those in Western Europe — rebounded in April after a March drop, writes Global Tourism and Experiences Reporter Jade Wilson.

Visits from Western Europe increased 12% from last April, according to data published Monday by the U.S. International Trade Administration. Travel to the U.S. from Germany and the United Kingdom increased substantially in April — around 15% for each country. Visits from Germany were down about 28% in March.

Overall inbound travel to the U.S. increased close to 3% in April. However, Wilson notes the data does not include visits from Canada, which have declined sharply in recent months and make up the largest percentage of international tourist by country.

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Next, the U.S.’ aging air traffic control system is facing increased scrutiny following a series of disruptions at Newark International Airport. Airlines Reporter Meghna Maharishi delves into the federal government’s plan to improve the air traffic control system.

Maharishi writes that the airline industry has long struggled with outdated technology and staffing shortages, with the FAA roughly 3,000 air traffic controllers short of its staffing goal. These issues have led United Airlines to cut 35 daily round-trip flights out of Newark.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy recently said the federal government plans to spend billions to modernize the air traffic control system and push for more hiring. Those plans include building six new air traffic control towers, which Duffy said would take three to four years to complete.

Finally, real estate investment firm Highgate is increasing its investment in luxury brand Viceroy with developments in new markets, writes Senior Hospitality Editor Sean O’Neill.

Viceroy plans to open The Harriman in Sun Valley, Idaho, in the summer of 2026. Richard Russo, a principal at Highgate, said the property will be the “first true luxury hotel” at the popular ski destination.

O’Neill notes the project represents a strategic shift for Viceroy, which Highgate acquired in 2023. Once known for urban boutique hotels, Viceroy is now targeting wealthy leisure travelers in outdoor destinations. In addition, Highgate expects to open more Viceroy-branded residences in the coming years.