
Skift Travel News
February 21, 2025 at 10:25 AM
**🏨 Choice Hotels Drops Hundreds of Budget Properties in Upscale Shift**
Choice Hotels is making a major strategic move by shedding hundreds of budget hotels to focus on upscale and extended-stay properties. This shift aligns with its efforts to attract higher-paying travelers and strengthen its premium brand offerings. The company sees long-term value in catering to more affluent guests rather than competing in the budget segment.
🔗 *Read more:* [Choice Hotels Strategy Shift](https://skift.com/2025/02/20/choice-has-dumped-hundreds-of-budget-hotels-in-upscale-strategy-shift/)
**✈️ Spirit Airlines Cleared to Exit Bankruptcy**
Spirit Airlines has received court approval to emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy, marking a fresh start for the budget carrier. The airline plans to restructure its debt, streamline operations, and improve financial stability while continuing to offer low-cost flights. This development provides hope for both investors and passengers relying on affordable air travel options.
🔗 *Read more:* [Spirit’s Comeback](https://skift.com/2025/02/20/spirit-airlines-cleared-to-exit-chapter-11-bankruptcy/)
**🌍 Booking Holdings Unfazed by AI Disruptions**
Despite growing concerns that AI-powered platforms could disrupt the travel booking industry, Booking Holdings remains confident in its position. The company believes its scale, strong brand, and direct customer relationships will keep it relevant even as AI tools evolve. While acknowledging the rapid rise of agentic AI, Booking sees it as a complementary force rather than a direct threat.
🔗 *Read more:* [AI & Travel Bookings](https://skift.com/2025/02/20/booking-holdings-downplays-concerns-that-agentic-ai-platforms-will-displace-it/)
📩 Stay tuned for more travel industry updates!