CWT - Industry Trends/Innovations

Industry Trends/Innovations

Airlines decrease some fuel surcharges
Many airlines have recently cut back fuel surcharges for flights mainly between the United States and Europe. The mid-October roll back is the first amongst the new fees that have driven up the cost of flying this year.

Some carriers have dropped their fuel surcharges by 17-18 percent on international routes as a result of falling oil prices. The reduction in fuel surcharges is intended to entice people back on planes during this tough economic crisis.

Travelers should keep in mind that other additional fees and tariffs (i.e., checked baggage fees) still exist, which factor into the total cost per ticket.

Sources: LA times, Chicago Tribune, CNN

Hotel trade association establishing green guidelines
The American Hotel and Lodging Association is setting up guidelines to assist hotels around the nation to become more “green.” The simple environmental guidelines will be basic recommendations such as linen reuse and waste management programs as well as installation of digital thermometers and fluorescent lamps. A book will be published by the trade association that details best practices in the industry.

Sources: Travel Weekly, Professional Travel Guide