International travel challenges took center stage at the Flagstaff Tourism Commission meeting on September 25, 2025, as officials discussed the impact of rising visa fees and funding cuts on tourism. The conversation highlighted concerns over the United States Travel Association (USTA) and Brand USA's efforts to mitigate these issues.

Commission members learned that visa fees for travelers to the U.S. are expected to increase, potentially making the country one of the most expensive destinations for international visitors. However, as of the latest updates, these fee hikes are currently delayed, providing a glimmer of hope for tourism advocates. "Brand USA and USTA are working to get that delayed or decreased," one commissioner noted, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

In addition to visa concerns, the meeting addressed funding cuts to Brand USA, which promotes American tourism abroad. Fortunately, it appears that the administration has restored funding for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027, a positive development for the tourism sector.

The discussion also touched on the broader trend of declining national park visitation, with a noted 1.5% drop in attendance. Factors contributing to this decline include reduced international travel and local challenges, such as the Dragon Bravo fire affecting access to the Grand Canyon.

As the meeting concluded, commissioners expressed a desire for more data on how much of the 2025 visitor attraction trends are linked to diminished international travel, underscoring the need for ongoing dialogue and strategic planning to bolster Flagstaff's tourism industry.