BUSINESS

Alibaba’s Online Travel Arm Slashes Jobs as Business Struggles

Published: Jul. 17, 2026 7:25 p.m. GMT+8

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Fliggy has been cutting jobs across several departments since June, reflecting mounting pressure on the Alibaba-owned online travel platform as it struggles to enhance presence in a market dominated by Trip.com Group Ltd.

The downsizing comes as the company continues to streamline its operations and rely on artificial intelligence to cut costs amid a challenging macroeconomic environment.

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Fliggy cut jobs since June, with up to 30% in transportation and 50% in R&D. The company denies large-scale layoffs, citing 10% turnover.
Reasons include poor financial performance, restructuring, macroeconomic challenges, and increased AI use.
Alibaba-owned Fliggy struggles against Trip.com's over 60% market share, despite an 80% Spring Festival 2026 booking surge.

AI generated, for reference only

What Happened When

December 2025：: A chief technology officer-led department was established at Fliggy.

By 2026 Spring Festival：: Fliggy reported an 80% year-on-year surge in ticket bookings.

Since June 2026：: Fliggy has been cutting jobs across several departments, affecting roles in development, testing, and product design, with average firings up to 30% in transportation and 50% in the R&D team established in December 2025.

AI generated, for reference only