Latest Travel News: Top Global Travel Updates for December 2025

December 2025 marks one of the busiest travel periods in recent history. From record-breaking holiday travel demand to new airline routes and digital border updates, travelers worldwide are navigating a fast-moving travel landscape. Here’s everything you need to know before heading out.

Major Airline & Route Updates

• Airlines Expand Holiday Flight Schedules
  Major global airlines including Delta, Emirates, Lufthansa, and Singapore Airlines have added extra frequencies on transatlantic and Asia-Pacific routes to meet peak Christmas and New Year demand.
• New Long-Haul Routes Launched for Winter Travel
  Several new nonstop routes debuted in December, including Los Angeles–Tokyo Haneda, Toronto–Rome, and Dubai–Auckland, offering travelers more direct options during the holiday season.

New Travel Regulations & Border Policies

• EU Expands Digital Entry Systems
  The European Union continues rolling out its digital entry and exit system at major airports, helping streamline passport checks and reduce border wait times for non-EU travelers.
• More Countries Adopt Online Arrival Forms
  Popular destinations across Asia, South America, and the Middle East now require travelers to complete digital arrival forms before landing, fully replacing paper documentation.

Holiday & Seasonal Travel Trends

• Record Christmas and New Year Travel Worldwide
  Global travel demand has reached its highest level since before the pandemic, with airports reporting record passenger volumes between December 20 and January 5.
• Winter Sun Destinations Surge in Popularity
  The Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East are seeing strong booking growth as travelers seek warm-weather escapes during the winter holidays.