IHCL Reports Record Q3 Profit as Portfolio Hits 617 Hotels, Boosting Travel Flows

IHCL’s network expansion to 617 hotels with a pipeline of 256 properties directly increases demand for intercity and airport transfers, pressuring local taxi fleets and last-mile scheduling during peak check-in periods. In Q3 FY26 the company reported consolidated revenue of INR 2,900 crore, EBITDA of INR 1,134 crore and profit after tax (PAT) of INR 903 crore, while the hotel segment alone generated INR 2,579 crore in revenue and a hotel EBITDA of INR 1,050 crore—numbers that translate into higher ride volumes for ground transport providers and more predictable peak windows for transfer services.

Financial snapshot at a glance

The quarter marked IHCL’s fifteenth consecutive record period, supported by strong same-store performance and growth across catering and new business lines. Key financials and operational figures for Q3 FY26 include:

Operational drivers behind growth

IHCL’s performance was driven by several measurable factors:

• Same-store growth across the portfolio, lifting RevPAR and occupancy.
• 17% rise in airline and institutional catering revenue, indicating higher B2B travel spend.
• 31% increase in revenue from new businesses, showing diversification beyond rooms.
• 239 signings during the period, expanding market reach and local transfer needs.

Strategic expansion and cash position

IHCL advanced its Accelerate 2030 strategy with acquisitions: a controlling stake in Atmantan, a 51% stake in Brij Hotels, and majority acquisitions in ANK & Pride Hospitality to scale the Ginger brand. The company reported a gross cash balance of INR 3,877 crore as of December 31, 2025, and generated about INR 1,600 crore in cash over nine months.

Capex, projects and travel nodes

Capital expenditure of approximately INR 750 crore focused on greenfield and brownfield projects—key names include Taj Frankfurt, Taj Ganges Varanasi, and the upcoming Taj Bandstand—alongside upgrades at Taj Palace Delhi, Taj Fort Aguada Goa, President Mumbai y St James Court London. These projects link IHCL to major aviation and transport hubs, amplifying demand for direct airport taxis, private car services and scheduled transfers.

Implications for taxi and transfer operators

At a glance, the hospitality group’s growth creates operational and commercial signals for the transfer market:

• Increased need for reliable airport pickups and drop-offs during check-in/check-out peaks.
• Higher corporate catering revenues mean more institutional contracts and bulk transfers.
• New properties in international hubs (e.g., Frankfurt, London) require familiarization with local license and compliance regimes.
• Opportunities for partnerships between hotels and certified drivers or limousine services to offer bundled fares and exact pick-up timing.

For travelers and operators alike, predictability around arrival windows helps optimize driver schedules, reduce empty miles and stabilize fares. Platforms that allow customers to choose the exact vehicle, see make, model and driver ratings beforehand can smooth this coordination and improve satisfaction.

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In summary, IHCL’s record Q3—marked by INR 2,900 crore in revenue, robust EBITDA and a growing 617-hotel footprint—signals steady growth in room demand and related transport services. For the taxi and transfer ecosystem this means busier airport and city routes, clearer peak windows, evolving fare dynamics and more opportunities for private and shared ride services. Using platforms that show exact vehicle details, driver license and ratings helps travelers book the best service and price for their destination, whether an airport transfer or a private limousine for special occasions. By offering transparency, competitive fares and a global network of verified providers, LocalsRide.com supports travelers to get the right car, at the right time, for the right price—helping you plan and book smarter across cities and airports.