By Tracy Newton
Manager, Business Travel Services
The world of business travel is being literally shaken by the economic state of our travel service providers (airlines, cars, hotels, etc). We have seen such a dramatic change since the beginning of 2008, primarily focused on the airline industry, but we anticipate more changes on the horizon.
As mentioned in the 2008 Business Travel Forecast, if you have traveled lately you've most likely noticed a few travel-related issues.
The US based airlines are doing everything to stay afloat in this challenging economy, to include plans for creative revenue generating ideas. As the year presses on, it is going to become increasingly more important to control travel expenses and know the underlying costs you could potentially incur.
Also remember - you can only change that which you can measure!
Recent news headlines have shed light on some areas that could affect your business travelers and your T&E budget. We hope to help you navigate away from potential pitfalls by being prepared and armed with information.
Top 10 Concerns for Business Travel in 2008
- Domestic Carrier Baggage Fees - Learn your airline's limitations — and penalties.
- Economic Impact of Fuel - How fuel prices, fewer flights and airline job cuts will affect travel.
- Lost Luggage - A new trick and tip to ensure your items make it to your destination.
- Managing Complexities - Understanding that managing business travel has changed.
- Other Hidden Airline Fees - Other ways the industry is generating revenue that you may not be aware of!
- Bankruptcy and Mergers - Here is a cheat sheet of the 'happenings' in the domestic market.
- Influx of International Carriers - Domestic carriers continue to struggle with the weakening dollar, marking an increased number of international carriers.
- Rising Hotel Prices - Stats on the current state of the hotel industry
- Car Rental Concerns - Fuel prices play a role in another part of the travel equasion.
- Overall Decline in Service - Sadly a sign of the times... how can you be prepared?
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