Global GDS channel results for the third quarter show that business bookings rallied during July and August, coming within +3% of prior year. September reservations returned to pre-summer levels, coming in at -7.8% less than last year, but didn’t dip as low the -8.9% decrease in June. Rates played a much more stable role overall. Although easing to just -1.5% below last year in September, global ADR has consistently hovered near or above prior year.
These revenue factors continue to reflect the reality of ongoing business travel demand in an uncertain economic environment. Uncertainty breeds hesitation and a more conservative approach toward travel decisions, which caused uneven booking patterns and performance against prior year.
Average length of stay and booking lead times also reflect companies’ firm focus on revenue-generating activities. Trips continue to remain brief, helping to maximize the return on travel spend, and resulting in fuller, more concise agendas. The global average length of stay in September was 2.12 days versus 2.15 days last year, shorter by -1.1%.
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