The GBTA surveyed over 900 business travel professionals from 12 to 16 October. The aim: to identify the obstacles to the recovery in business travel, and above all the ways in which the business travel machine can be revived. Their answer is clear: travel buyers are impatiently awaiting the roll-out of rapid pre-departure screening, which would prevent "negative" travellers from escaping the quarantine measures that have been stepped up. 76% of travel buyers cite this double condition as their priority, with the proportion rising to 86% in the European market.
" The current fragmented approach to travel, particularly in Europe, is prolonging the devastating effects of COVID-19 on industry and the economy as a whole. "reminds Catherine LoganGBTA Europe Regional Vice-President. " It is clear from our latest survey that our members would welcome the opportunity to travel again in a safe environment and would welcome a rapid pre-travel screening approach. "she adds.
According to figures published on Thursday by the GBTA, fear of the traveller is not the main obstacle to the recovery of business travel. Only 9% of the professionals questioned identified it as an obstacle, compared with 32% for travel policy, and above all 43 % for government restrictions and policies on travel.
As for the forecasts anticipating a lasting shift in power from business travel to the virtual world, the GBTA study is tinged with optimism for business travel. In fact, 82% of those surveyed still believe that face-to-face meetings are "more" or even "much more" effective. " It's clear that regular business travellers can't wait to get back on the road, and that the benefits of face-to-face meetings are undeniable "says Dave Hilfman, interim executive director of the GBTA.
