Change in the Government Passenger Travel
Moderator: Mr. Robin (Rob) D. Johnson, Chief, Transportation Branch, Travel Programs Division, Defense Transportation Management Office
Panelists:
- Mr. Floyd M. Haralson, GS-14, DAF, Chief, AF Passenger Travel Policy, A4LR DTS Authorizing Official
- Mr. Mark A. Edwards, GS-14, Head, Passenger Transportation Section HQMC, I&L, LP, LPS-D
- Mr. Steve Croft, Senior Director, Strategic Account Management, Travelport
- Mr. Mark D. Dellinger, Director, Office of Travel Management and Policy, U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Administration
Summary
The GovTravels 2026 panel on the changing landscape of government passenger travel highlights a system under pressure to evolve amid technological disruption, policy complexity, and workforce challenges. Moderated by Rob Johnson of the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO), the discussion brings together leaders from the Department of State, Marine Corps, and industry to examine how travel programs must adapt to remain mission-ready.
A central theme is the growing importance of data. While agencies collect vast amounts of travel data, panelists emphasize that the true value lies in integrating and analyzing it to drive smarter, evidence-based decisions. Fragmentation across systems, agencies, and global operations continues to limit visibility, particularly in areas such as duty of care and cost management.
Artificial intelligence is expected to play a transformative role, particularly in automating routine processes, improving compliance, and enabling more advanced data analysis. However, adoption within government will lag behind the commercial sector due to security requirements such as FedRAMP and the complexity of federal policy frameworks.
Panelists also highlight the need for more adaptive and forward-looking travel policies. Current frameworks are often reactive to industry changes or geopolitical events, creating friction in execution. Emerging priorities include aligning travel policy with remote workforce trends, improving flexibility in approval processes, and modernizing outdated regulatory structures.
Cost optimization remains a critical focus, with an emphasis on smarter—not reduced—travel. Leveraging integrated data, improving traveler education, and streamlining approval workflows can reduce costs while preserving mission effectiveness.
Workforce challenges emerge as a significant long-term risk. Talent shortages across both government and industry threaten operational continuity, reinforcing the need for automation, better tools, and policies that attract and retain skilled professionals.
Ultimately, the panel underscores that the future of government travel will depend on integration, adaptability, and sustained collaboration across agencies and industry partners.