Airbnb shares rose more than 12% in premarket trading on Friday, November 6, 2026, after the accommodation platform raised its full-year revenue growth forecast, signalling stronger travel demand despite warnings from other travel companies about higher costs and geopolitical uncertainty.
The San Francisco-based company said it now expects revenue growth in the high teens for 2026, an improvement from its previous forecast of at least mid-teens growth. The upgraded outlook followed stronger third-quarter performance, with bookings accelerating across established and emerging markets.
Airbnb reported third-quarter revenue of $4.87 billion, representing a 19% increase from the same period last year. Net income reached $1.9 billion, while adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation increased by 22% to $2.5 billion.
The company also recorded a 16% increase in nights and seats booked, a measure covering accommodation stays and service bookings, reaching 155 million during the quarter. Growth accelerated across its major geographical markets, reflecting continued demand for international and domestic travel.
Chief Executive Officer Brian Chesky said the company was back in growth mode, highlighting improvements in its products, operations and customer experience as factors supporting its performance.
Airbnb also reported stronger momentum in North America, where nights booked grew at their fastest pace in four years. First-time booking growth accelerated to 13% year-on-year, its strongest rate since early 2022, with younger travellers contributing to the expansion.
The improved outlook contrasts with more cautious forecasts from traditional travel companies, including Booking Holdings, Expedia and TripAdvisor. These businesses have highlighted pressure from higher airfares associated with the Iran conflict and continued uncertainty in parts of Europe.
Airbnb said underlying global travel demand remained healthy, although it was monitoring developments across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
The company is also expanding beyond its traditional home-rental business as it seeks to compete more directly with established online travel agencies. Hotel bookings have grown, while the platform continues to introduce additional services and tools designed to encourage customers to use Airbnb for more aspects of their travel arrangements.
Another area of investment is artificial intelligence. The company is developing an AI-powered travel agent intended to help users discover destinations, plan trips and make bookings through its platform.
Airbnb also authorised an additional $12 billion share repurchase programme, signalling confidence in its financial position and future growth prospects.
The company's latest results provide a positive indication of its performance heading into the final quarter of 2026. Investors will now be watching whether stronger booking growth can continue despite higher travel costs and geopolitical uncertainty.
