2026 Corporate Travel Trends for the Energy Sector

Business travel continues to be essential for organisations worldwide, with the value of face-to-face interaction only strengthened after the pandemic. Corporate travel remains a critical way to build new relationships, collaborate across borders, and connect with different workplaces, cultures and decision makers.

In the global oil and gas industry, business travel is even more vital. The sector is operationally complex, international by design, and reliant on safety, collaboration and technical expertise that cannot be delivered remotely.

Oil and gas operations involve high risk environments including offshore platforms, pipelines, refineries and rigs. Safety inspections, engineering oversight, audits and maintenance require on site presence. Major energy projects such as exploration, development and drilling campaigns are often spread across continents. As a result, engineers, site leaders and technical specialists must travel to manage contractors, troubleshoot challenges in real time and keep production running safely and efficiently.

The industry also relies on direct engagement with governments, regulators, national oil companies and stakeholders. Negotiation, regulation and approval processes are far more effective when handled in person.

2026 is expected to be a transformative year for the energy sector and corporate travel will remain a core enabler of growth, supporting workforce deployment, project execution and market expansion. Current forecasts indicate improvement in leverage for corporate travel buyers, presenting an opportunity to refine travel strategy and reduce cost. But what key trends will shape energy travel management in 2026?

1. Global Travel Pattern Shifts in 2026

While the future of UK production remains uncertain, its workforce capability does not. Deploying highly skilled UK personnel to overseas sites is not new, but without consistent domestic activity this outward shift may accelerate.

Rising investment across the Middle East, West Africa and South America is increasing demand for experienced operational talent, training specialists and supply chain support. Whether deploying skilled workers to deliver hands on expertise or transferring knowledge to develop local teams, the role of a specialist Travel Management Company becomes essential, ensuring each movement is seamless, safe, cost efficient and compliant.

More international movement means higher travel expenditure. With airlines and suppliers projecting price increases in 2026, partnering with the right Travel Management Company is key to controlling spend. ATPIs global network, local presence and deep energy sector insight allow businesses to navigate pricing trends, negotiate strong rates and maximise the value of travel budgets, especially when entering new or emerging markets.

2. Technology and Artificial Intelligence in Corporate Travel

Technology sits at the heart of a smooth travel experience. Looking ahead, artificial intelligence will reshape business travel in 2026 by improving automation, personalisation and operational efficiency.

Artificial intelligence is not a replacement for the human value a Travel Management Company provides, it is an enabler. ATPI has already integrated AI models to reduce manual workload, accelerate booking processes and remove repetitive tasks. Early results show strong gains in speed, consistency and accuracy.

AI translation functions also support multilingual communication, ensuring bookings and documents remain clear across global markets. With international crew movement increasing, this reduces the risk of miscommunication and strengthens operational continuity.

These efficiencies allow teams to focus on high value, tailored travel solutions which is especially important for clients in the energy sector, where cultural requirements and duty of care expectations sit at the forefront of workforce wellbeing.

3. Workforce Wellbeing and Duty of Care in 2026

As energy companies expand into new regions, wellbeing and traveller safety remain a top priority for 2026. High activity regions such as Eastern Europe and the Middle East can be affected by geopolitical instability. Disruption remains likely and businesses must build resilience into travel programmes.

Trust and transparency underpin successful travel management. Open communication, clear decision making and real time information allow operators to respond quickly and prioritise crew welfare.

ATPIs proprietary tools CrewHub, CrewLink and Traveller Tracking System provide visibility of traveller activity and risk exposure. When political or operational risk increases, teams can respond faster, protect personnel and maintain continuity.

Global instability cannot be controlled, but the quality of response can. With the right blend of technology and experienced travel management, organisations can safeguard their crews and continue operations safely and confidently.