by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 8:45 AM ET, Thu October 5, 2023
The U.S. Travel Association called for the modernization of air travel and air travel safety processes during a quarterly roundtable for members of the media this week, noting that air travel hassles are encouraging travelers to take less trips each year, costing the U.S. economy an estimated $71 billion.?
The USTAs new research, conducted with Ipsos and Longwoods International, found that half of air travelers would travel more if air travel was less of a hassle. Additionally, business travelers would take two more trips per year for work if things like delays and cancellations improved an economic impact of $52 billion.?
The association also found that nearly 60 percent of recent air travelers find that traveling by air is the same or worse than going to the DMV, noting that the U.S. is far behind other countries modernizations, under-funding modernizing security screening technology, customs, visitor visa programs and security processes.?
When nearly 60% of recent air travelers find the experience the equivalent or worse than going to the DMV, it is a concerning signal that demands action, said U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman. With greater focus, it is well within the federal governments ability to make improvements across the travel ecosystem.
How Government Direction Can Help?
The USTA is encouraging the U.S. government to pass a long-term reauthorization bill for the Federal Aviation Administration, which is currently awaiting Senate passage. The passage of the bill would hopefully also help fund the air traffic controller deficit, which is currently at 1,200.?
The association also calls for the confirmation of Michael G. Whitaker to serve as FAA administrator, a role that has not been permanently filled for eighteen months.?
Additionally, U.S. officials should compare the nations processes with other countries processes, and act accordingly. Countries like Spain and the U.K., for example, were cited for their advanced security technology that led to them ending the liquid ban in carry-on luggage. Biometrics could also help streamline the airport security process.?
The security screening experience travelers encounter today is effectively the same as it was 21 years ago when the TSA was established, said Freeman. While air travel is safer than ever, the process for most air travelers has not evolved. Screening processes and technologies in the United States are falling behind those in other nations. Its time to lead the way.
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