Vasudha Sondhi
MD, Outbound Marketing
2026 looks positive, based on the steady increase in business leads we are seeing across our existing hotel clients. The overall sentiment remains optimistic, with demand showing clear signs of sustained growth.
The trends shaping the year ahead are wellness-led travel and experience-led travel. Another trend that is expected to continue is the dual pattern of travel – longer stays supported by work-from-home flexibility, and shorter but more frequent trips, domestically and internationally. There will also be travellers who prefer traditional itineraries with packed sightseeing schedules and multiple photo stops. Local food experiences will also play a significant role in influencing travel decisions. Overall, I expect 2026 to be a year of robust growth, very much in line with the strong performance witnessed in 2024.
Ellona Pereira
General Manager, India, AVIAREPS
Our vision focuses on continued expansion across emerging Indian markets, sustained growth in South India, and closer collaboration with key stakeholders across the travel ecosystem. We will continue to leverage our platforms, such as the AVIAREPS Roadshows and ‘AVIAREPS Around the World’ to create meaningful business connections. Innovation will remain a key growth driver, supported by our digital ecosystem and advanced airline distribution solutions. AVIAREPS India remains focused on delivering consistent, sustainable growth while creating long-term value for our partners across the Indian market.
Burjis Mehta
President, Skal Club of Bombay 144
Business travel in India is undergoing a significant transformation as companies are reassessing their travel strategies, focusing on sustainability and leveraging data to decide travel policies. Sustainability has become a central pillar of global business strategies, and corporate travel is no exception. Organizations are consciously working to reduce their carbon footprint by choosing eco-friendly travel partners and encouraging responsible and sustainable travel practices. Another emerging trend is the rise of ‘Bleisure traveller’. Employees are increasingly extending business trips to include a few days of personal exploration, often working remotely during this time.
Shivani Singh Deo
Country Manager, India, Virgin Atlantic
Looking ahead to 2026, I see India’s role in global aviation continuing to grow. Demand across premium leisure and business travel remains strong, and our focus is on deepening our presence through smart partnerships, innovative products and responsible growth. Our ambition is to be a long-term partner in India’s aviation journey—connecting people, families and businesses in a way that feels unmistakably Virgin Atlantic: warm, thoughtful and increasingly sustainable.
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