United States Faces Challenges in Preparing for Upcoming Major Sporting Events

The United States is gearing up to host several significant international sporting events, including the 2025 Ryder Cup, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. These events are expected to attract a large influx of visitors, leading to increased air travel demands.

However, a recent report by the U.S. Travel Association suggests that the nation is not sufficiently prepared for this anticipated surge in travel. The report, released on Wednesday, emphasizes the urgency of modernizing the current air travel system.

According to the report, immediate action is necessary to address the outdated air traffic control infrastructure. Without these improvements, the system risks becoming overwhelmed as travel demand escalates.

Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, voiced concerns regarding this impending travel rush. He stated that the next several years present a historic opportunity for the U.S. to capitalize on unprecedented travel demand. However, he warned that unless urgent measures are taken, the country may struggle to meet the needs of visitors.

Modernization of Air Traffic Control is Crucial

Freeman highlighted the need for a significant reform in air traffic control technology. He noted that the current systems are inadequate for handling the expected increase in travel. Furthermore, the U.S. is facing challenges related to air traffic controller shortages, which exacerbate the potential travel disruptions.

“America is staring at a historic opportunity. The question is whether we will seize the moment or fall maddeningly short,” Freeman stated.

The Economic Impact

The report estimates that failure to modernize the air travel system could hinder the unlocking of a $100 billion economic opportunity. With millions of tourists expected to arrive for these sporting events, the implications for the nation’s economy are significant.

Freeman urged lawmakers to utilize the upcoming sporting events as a catalyst for reform, emphasizing that addressing travel pain points should be a top priority. He called upon Washington to act swiftly to modernize the air travel infrastructure.

Calls to Action for Leadership

The U.S. Travel Association’s report is a clarion call for active engagement from Congress and the executive branch. Freeman urged government leaders, including President Donald Trump, to prioritize improvements to air travel.

Among the recommendations made were procedures for expedited visas for the 2026 World Cup and initiatives for advanced security screening measures. These enhancements would not only improve customer experience but also strengthen border security.

A Vital Moment for Transformation

Freeman concluded his remarks with a sense of urgency, declaring this the critical moment for the nation to deliver a world-class travel system that meets the expectations of both Americans and international visitors. The stakes are high, as the upcoming years will test the resilience and readiness of the nation’s travel infrastructure.

The call to action is clear—only through decisive and timely interventions can the U.S. ensure it is ready to welcome the world during these major sporting events. The clock is ticking, and the path forward demands immediate attention from decision-makers.