Evidence suggests leakage is more frequently driven by system visibility gaps, pricing inconsistencies, and channel dynamics than deliberate traveller behaviour. Travellers typically respond to what they see at the point of booking.

Why Leakage Appears Behavioural

Out-of-programme bookings are often interpreted as compliance failures.

Structural Conditions That Encourage Leakage

• Missing negotiated rates
• Public rates appearing cheaper
• Incomplete hotel content
• Channel comparison friction

Traveller Decision-Making in Practice

Travellers optimise for price, convenience, and transparency under real-time conditions.

Why Enforcement Alone Has Limited Impact

Tighter policy rarely resolves root-cause visibility or pricing inconsistencies.

Reframing Leakage as a System Signal

Leakage often indicates structural friction rather than behavioural resistance.