Corporate Travel Buyers Face Rising Costs and New Challenges Ahead of 2027

Corporate travel buyers are gearing up for 2027 with significant concerns about increasing airfares, the need for better supplier value, and improved adherence to travel policies. New insights from a survey conducted by the Business Travel Show America have shed light on these pressing issues.

Key Findings from the Survey

The survey engaged 204 corporate travel buyers who were asked to pinpoint the top three challenges they foresee in managing travel programs next year. The results were unveiled at the Javits Center in New York, where the Business Travel Show America is taking place from October 15.

One of the most alarming findings was the sharp rise in concerns over airline costs. The percentage of buyers considering this a major challenge has doubled from 15% in 2025 to 30% for 2026 and beyond. This escalation in concern coincides with fluctuating energy prices, particularly with Brent crude oil recently breaching the $100 per barrel mark.

Supplier Value and Compliance Challenges

In addition to rising airfares, 30% of the travel buyers indicated that securing better value from suppliers is a key concern. Close behind, 29% of respondents emphasized the importance of enhancing policy compliance and minimizing expenses incurred outside approved travel arrangements.

Louis Magliaro, the executive vice president of BTN Group, noted that it is intriguing to see corporate travel buyers focus on enduring issues like cost, supplier value, and compliance, despite advancements in AI and technology. He stated, “The solutions to these challenges are evolving rapidly, and it’s vital for buyers to leverage new technologies and stronger supplier partnerships to maximize the value of available resources.”

Technology and Traveler Experience: New Priorities

Beyond cost management, technology integration emerged as a significant challenge for 28% of respondents. Travel managers are under increasing pressure to implement solutions that accommodate complex travel needs. This involves adopting AI tools, enhancing the traveler experience, improving risk management, and expanding data analytics capabilities.

Meeting traveler expectations while adhering to budget limitations is another priority, with 22% of buyers acknowledging this balancing act. As employees demand more consumer-like booking experiences and personalized options, travel managers must negotiate the gap between satisfaction and financial controls.

The Role of External Factors

External uncertainties continue to shape travel planning. Geopolitical instability was flagged by 21% of participants as a significant factor, while 20% noted the importance of supporting business expansion in new markets and regions. Economic uncertainties were also highlighted, affecting strategic decisions for corporate travel.

A Collaborative Approach to Solutions

The Business Travel Show America aims to tackle these challenges by connecting corporate travel and procurement professionals with over 150 suppliers. The two-day event features independent educational sessions, exclusive networking opportunities for buyers, and a Business Travel Innovation Faceoff, where twelve innovators will present solutions tailored to corporate travel needs.

Participants are encouraged to assess suppliers, strengthen partnerships, benchmark their travel programs, and explore innovative technologies that enhance efficiency, compliance, and traveler satisfaction. These findings underscore the importance of cost management and supplier relationships in the corporate travel landscape, even as technology adoption and evolving employee expectations drive changes in the industry.