TOURISM INDIA MAY 2020

INCREDIBLE INDIA

WONDERFUL WORLD AIRLINES ONLINE TECHNOLOGY

23

MAY 2020

Vol 23, No. 01

BUMPY ROADS COVID 19 & TOURISM

TOURISM STATISTICS UNWTO FOCUS WTTC FORECASTS AILING INDIAN TOURISM SECTOR

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MAY 2020 Tourism India

Editor’s Note

A

Revival of Tourism to Rebuild Economy

fter all the survival measures which have been implemented, now the measures for revival of Indian tourism needs to be put in immediately.

Tourism has always been one of the first sectors which effect, whenever there has been a major impact on the economy of a country because people cut down on the travel budgets first. While compare with other segments Tourism relatively had a direct role to play when it comes to COVID-19 which has widely spread most in the countries with a high number of tourists.

No doubt the recovery might be slow but it is sure once we can control the virus tourism industry will again see the growth as a front runner like before.

The UNWTO’s online campaign TravelTomorrow which is being embraced by many countries, destinations, and companies linked to tourism all over the world has a massive impact on social networks.

Travel Tomorrow highlights the enduring values of Tourism.

As a new normal in the Travel sector, Personal responsibility has a big role and the citizens should take all the recommended steps for personal hygiene and be aware of the symptoms. World Health Organization advised that Travellers should familiarize themselves with the basic practices which

apply while traveling and in daily life. Travelers are responsible for their own well-being and the well-being of those around them as well.

UNWTO reports that COVID 19 has brought Global Tourism standstill and Secretary-General Pololikashvili has called on governments to make revival packages for the Travel and Tourism Industry. Recovery Plan for the Tourism sector is under construction by The Global Tourism Crisis Committee As Trust is the new currency of our ‘new normal’, Tourism can play a key role in spreading trust more widely. Tourism is an ultimate person-to-person sector, which promotes friendship with benefits traveling far beyond. Through using Tourism as an ideal channel to spread Trust we can start to rebuild and drive our lost economies back to growth.

If governments can earn the trust of people that destinations are well equipped to keep them safe from harm, indeed they will travel tomorrow.

All these days we all try to resist the crisis and in the coming days, we will have to be confident that together we can overcome this situation as well.

Stay safe and travel responsibly.

Rajani A Editor

MAY 2020 Tourism India

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Contents MAY 2020

VOL 23 NO 01

MANAGING EDITOR Ravisankar K V EDITOR Rajani A EXECUTIVE EDITOR Raadia Mukadam ASSOCIATE EDITOR G. Ajithkumar ART EDITOR N Bhattathiri DIRECTOR - DESIGNS Anand Sankar PHOTOGRAPHERS Vivek R. Nair, Murukesh Iyer

10

Tourism Industry needs support to tide over Covid-19 crisis

13

TAAI seeks Centre’s intervention to overcome challenges

14

COVID-19: Ficci seeks bailout package for aviation industry

16

IATO seeks relief to overcome COVID-19 crisis

17

IATA agents seeks rEvival package for travel and tourism sector

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EDITORIAL & CORPORATE OFFICE TOURISM INDIA PUBLICATIONS PVT. LTD A-29, KUMARA VILAS, ELANKOM GARDENS, VELLAYAMBALAM, SASTHAMANGALAM P.O., TRIVANDRUM, KERALA, INDIA 695010 TEL: +91 471 2315256 MOB: 9947160531 CONTACT US Editorial Enquiries editor@tourismindiaonline.com Mob: +91 9847060531 Advertisement Enquiries marketing@tourismindiaonline.com Mob: +91 9745598126 Circulation & Subscription Enquiries circulation@tourismindiaonline.com Mob: +91 9947160531 Online Edition www.tourismindia.org www.tourismindiaonline.com Digital Edition: https://issue.com/tourismindia No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of TOURISM INDIA PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD. All rights reserved Copyright @2020 Printed and Published by Ravisankar K V on behalf of TOURISM INDIA PUBLICATIONS PVT LTD, A-29, Kumara Vilas, Elankom Gardens, Vellayambalam, Sasthamangalam P.O., Trivandrum 695010 at Aarsha Offset Graphix, Mettukkada, Thycaud.P.O., Trivandrum- 695014 Editor: Rajani A

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MAY 2020 Tourism India

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DOMESTIC TOURISTS ARRIVAL TAMILNADU & MAHARASHTRA LEADS 100% GLOBAL DESTINATIONS NOW HAVE COVID-19 TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS WORLD TOURISM REMAINS AT A STANDSTILL

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Over 100 million jobs losses in the Travel & Tourism sector- WTTC

26

Asia Pacific Visitor Numbers Likely to Reduce by 32% in 2020

18 20

Contents 29 30 32

PATA launches Crisis Resource Center and Tourism Recovery Monitor WHAT LESSONS CAN AIRLINES LEARN FROM BANKS POST THE FINANCIAL CRISIS OF 2008/2009 ACI and IATA Call for Urgent Financial Assistance to Protect Jobs and Operations

34

IKER CASILLAS NAMED UNWTO AMBASSADOR FOR RESPONSIBLE TOURISM

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UNWTO RELEASES A COVID-19 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PACKAGE FOR TOURISM RECOVERY

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Lockdown: First flight from Kerala to UK leaves with 268 passengers

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Qatar Airways to PRESENT 100,000 return Tickets to Frontline Healthcare Professionals

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Emirates Airline Begins Conducting COVID-19 Rapid Tests For Boarding Passengers

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GENTING CRUISE LINES ANNOUNCES ENHANCED PREVENTIVE MEASURES

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Travel & Life after Covid-19

48

Qatar Airways Announces Phased Rebuilding of Network

50

EMIRATES HONOURS TEA LEGEND MERRILL J. FERNANDO

52

Re-Starting Travel: Reputations & Frontlines MAY 2020 Tourism India

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AIRLINE NEWS / NATIONAL NEWS

TOURISM INDUSTRY NEEDS SUPPORT TO TIDE OVER COVID-19 CRISIS “The Travel and Tourism sector is facing a “lockdown situation”

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MAY 2020 Tourism India

W

ith the travel restrictions in destinations and the fear of the pandemic spreading the Tourism sector all over the world goes through am unprecedented situation. This crisis leads to millions of livelihoods at risk and threatens to roll back progress made in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

Representatives of the various trade association in Indian tourism sector have already written to the government seeking waivers to help tide over the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak on the industry.

The Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH), an apex body of 10 tourism, travel and hospitality organisations of India has doubled its loss guidance for India’s tourism sector to Rs 10 lakh crore, covering all aspects of the business on account of impact of COVID-19 pandemic.

It has shared the revision of loss guidance with an inter-ministerial group of the government and requested help from the government for the survival of the tourism and hospitality sector. Tourism supply chains are breaking down in India across all its key inbound, domestic and outbound markets and for the revival of any demand in tourism, the tourism supply in India has to first remain intact said the statement.

Mr. Ashish Gupta, Consulting CEO of FAITH said “ we would like to double the earlier guidance of

Indian tourism economic value at risk from Rs 5 lakh crore to Rs 10 lakh crore and recommended a salary corpus for the sector from the government. As per the World Economic Forum (WEF), the coronavirus pandemic is putting up to 50 million jobs in the global travel and tourism sector at risk. Of the 50 million jobs that could be lost, around 30 million would be in Asia.”

“The problem is that we have tourists who come into the country from October to March and there are people who travel within the country during summer holidays, puja holidays or in December and then there are people who go abroad. There is no one coming from outside. Our key source markets are heavily impacted due to coronavirus. We don’t anticipate the market to come back to India in the next 12-18 months,” he

Total losses of organised sector in the industry -branded hotels, tour operators, travel agencies -- which are the mainstay of the sector, may be hit the hardest with an estimated loss of around Rs 1.58 lakh crore - CII added.

Adding to this, Mr. Dipak Haksar, CII National Chairman Tourism Committee said, “The Travel and Tourism sector is facing a “lockdown situation” with negligible demand of both international and domestic leisure and business traveler and the industry is facing an existential crisis today.

Mr. Dipak Haksar, CII National Chairman Tourism Committee We estimate around 4-5 crore job losses of people who are directly or indirectly related to the tourism sector. Other than the organised sector,

MAY 2020 Tourism India

11

NEWS / NATIONAL the tourism industry also gives employment to small homestays, bread and breakfasts and small hotel operators and their services will also take a major hit.

“Occupancies in hotels have come to single-digit and recoveries are not expected in the near future. The industry expects to lose over 2 crore jobs and revenue loss could be of 6070 percent this year. The tourism industry is gasping for oxygen and we urge the government to pronounce immediate sectoral relief for the industry,” Mr. Haksar said.

According to the Confederation of Indian Industry, total losses of organised sector in the industry -- branded hotels, tour operators, travel agencies -- which are the mainstay of the sector, may be hit the hardest with an estimated loss of around Rs 1.58 lakh crore. The CII statement has said that branded hotel groups are set to lose as much as Rs 1.10 lakh crore, online travel agencies Rs 4,312 crore, tour operators (inbound and domestic) Rs 25,000 crore, adventure tour

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MAY 2020 Tourism India

operators Rs nearly 19,000 crore and cruise tourism Rs 419 crore. The CII said the industry will see cash flows only beginning to improve in November, 2020 and perhaps get to normal levels by early 2021.

Mr. Haskar recommended shortterm interest-free or low-interest loans for rebuilding business, 12-month deferment of all statutory dues and a moratorium of an additional three to six months on all working capital principal, interest payments on loans and overdrafts.

He also added that these steps, among other sops for the industry, would bring in liquidity, allowing for business continuity.

Last year, 10.89 million foreign tourists arrived in India, while the number was 10.56 million the year before and 10.04 million in 2017.In February 2020, 1.01 million foreign tourists arrived in India compared to 1.08 million in February 2019, registering a year-on-year decrease of 6.6 percent already. This was the sharpest decline since 2015 and also the

first in the month of February.

Sources in the Union Ministry of Tourism said the government is considering helping the sector with soft loans, working capital and deferment on loan repayments. In a presentation to a parliamentary panel on transport and tourism last month, the ministry itself, had pegged the losses at Rs 5 lakh crore, quoting industry estimates.

The Ministry of the External Affairs has recently suspended all visas of tourists arriving from Italy, Iran, China, South Korea and Japan. Indian citizens have also been asked to avoid travelling to China, Iran, Republic of Korea and Italy.

“Passengers (foreign and Indian) other than those restricted, arriving directly or indirectly from China, South Korea, Japan, Iran, Italy, Hong Kong, Macau, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Nepal, Thailand, Singapore and Taiwan must undergo medical screening at port of entry,” said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

TAAI SEEKS

CENTRE’S INTERVENTION TO OVERCOME CHALLENGES TAAI has submitted a memorandum to the Union Ministers of Finance, Aviation and Tourism to seek financial support to deal with the current crisis due to Covid 19

T

he Travel Agents Association of India has urged the Centre to make an intervention to overcome challenges faced

by Tourism industry as tour operators have witnessed 70-80 per cent cancellation of bookings following the coronavirus outbreak.

across the country.

According to Ms. Jyoti Mayal, President of TAAI, Travel industry is facing severe trouble as cancellations have already touched as high as 70-80 per cent. Travel agents have been swarmed with refund requests from customers who are cancelling plansm, while some airlines, hotels and other service providers are not issuing full refunds and future bookings are expected to see a significant drop as well “We have written to the tourism ministry for its intervention to resolve issues and concerns dealing with cancellations and also sought relief’s measures through tax rebates, and requested the government to allocate relief funds for the survival of the industry as we TAAI has submitted a memo- expect a deep impact. We are askrandum to the Union Ministers of ing for reduction in interest rate, Finance, Aviation and Tourism to overdraft and loan relaxations. seek financial support to deal with Looking at the current situation, the current crisis due to Covid 19 we have written letters to the travel restrictions and lockdown ministries. Ministry of tourism has

Ms. Jyoti Mayal, President, TAAI

said they are closely watching the situation and will keep issue timely advisories,” said Ms. Jyoti Mayal.

In a letter to Ms. Meenakshi Sharma, Director General (Tourism), Government of India, the association said that with the outbreak of coronavirus, travellers are refraining from undertaking travel while many countries have released travel advisories. Events are being cancelled, flights curtailed and hotels and immigration authorities are scanning passengers.

“Due to the sharp drop in business into and out of India, it shall become difficult for the trade to survive, as the most peak season for travellers is between April to July. Corporates are also putting their travel plans on hold,” Ms. Mayal said.

The TAAI has requested the Centre to issue a circular to airlines operating domestic and international flights for waiving rescheduling and cancellation charges on compassionate ground.

MAY 2020 Tourism India

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NEWS /NATIONAL

COVID-19: T FICCI SEEKS BAILOUT PACKAGE FOR AVIATION INDUSTRY

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MAY 2020 Tourism India

he Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) has sought a bailout package for the domestic aviation industry, including direct cash support from the government, interest-free soft loans and a two-years tax holiday to help the sector overcome the Covid-19 crisis.

It also pitched for deferment of term-loans by up to six months, 180-days credit window by the oil marketing firms and waiving of aircraft insurance premium, among others.

At the same time, FICCI also urged the government not to allow the operations until all states remove the lockdowns completely, saying that the restoration of partial services will only add to the financial woes of the domestic carriers.

The coronavirus pandemic has impacted aviation industry the most, with the grounding of commercial flight services fully or partially resulting in substantial losses to all stakeholders including airlines and airports. “The aviation industry is facing a crisis of

age, moving forward fleet retirement dates and deferring delivery of new aircraft, he said, adding what the Indian aviation industry needs to survive is an immediate bailout from the government.

“We also urge the government not to remove the grounding until and unless the states also remove their lockdowns, so that people can actually travel.

“If the grounding is Mr. Anand Stanley lifted but people are FICCI Aviation Committee Chairman and President & still not able to freeMD of Airbus India and South Asia ly travel, it will make the situation even unimaginable proportion due to the worse as lessors and other crediimpact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

With prolonged travel restrictions in tors will then further increase the place around the world, one of the intensity of their demands thinking major challenges faced by the avi- our revenue generation capacity is ation industry is a massive plunge back, when it is not. Demand will in cash reserves as fleets remain not return unless lockdowns are grounded for almost a month now. fully removed,” he said.

“Many airline companies are on the brink of bankruptcy,” said Anand Stanley FICCI Aviation Committee Chairman and President and Managing Director of Airbus India and South Asia, in his recommendations to Civil Aviation Secretary Pradeep Singh Kharola.

Global airlines grouping the International Air Transport Association (IATA) estimates that almost 30 lakh jobs are at risk in the Indian aviation dependent sectors, he said in the committee’s recommendations submitted to the government.

In addition to cutting down flights, airlines are putting aircraft in stor-

The coronavirus pandemic has impacted aviation industry the most, with the grounding of commercial flight services fully or partially resulting in substantial losses to all stakeholders including airlines and airports

Significantly, this is contrary to the position taken by the local carriers, some of whom were quick to announce resumption of services in a phased manner from May 4, immediately after the government extended the lockdown to May 3, in their bid to woo customers.

FICCI recommended that interest, penalties, delayed charges and accruals to airport operators should be waived for the airline companies, and airport operators could be adequately supported by the government to make up for the gap.

Since the corporate bond market is a vital source of cash, but the eligibility of corporate bonds support needs to be extended by the central bank and guaranteed by the government to provide access for a wider range of companies. Loans, loan guarantees and support or the corporate bond market by the government or the RBI, either directly to the airlines or to commercial banks are required it said.

The liquidity position of all airlines will be benefited, if the interest-free unsecured credit period for payment of fuel charges to oil marketing companies is enhanced to 180 days from the current 21 days.

Besides, it has also sought deferment of payment of GST for the airlines as well as rebates on payroll taxes paid to date in this year and/ or an extension of payment terms for the rest of 2020, along with a temporary waiver of ticket taxes and other government-imposed levies.

FICCI said that financial aid in terms of reduction in airport charges, overflight fees, taxation on passengers on security, waiver on parking and landing fees should be provided along with royalties to the airports for using the infrastructure, among others.

MAY 2020 Tourism India

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NEWS / INDUSTRY ASSOSCIATION

IATO

SEEKS

RELIEF TO OVERCOME COVID-19 CRISIS

I

ndian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), the apex body of Indian Tour Operators said, it seeks a financial relief package to defray the salaries of the employees and operational cost of offices based on the turnover of the company in last financial year. IATO also seeks a 9 to 12 months deferment (without any interest) on all principle and interest

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MAY 2020 Tourism India

payments on bank loans.

Mr. Pronab Sarkar, President, IATO said: “This financial assistance is very much needed because of government’s directives both by the centre and state government to not lay off staff and to pay the full salary to all employees. Under the present situation of zero business, we are not certain for how long this situation will continue and when we are going to revive our business.”

IATO represents more

than 1600 operators handling inbound tours said, it needs assistance from the government to tide over the COVID-19 crisis.

The advances paid to hotels, airlines and to state governments for luxury trains, wildlife safaris, and the road tax to be entirely refunded.

Scrapping of GST in entirety for a period of one year for all outbound, inbound and domestic bookings is also

Mr. Pronab Sarkar, President, IATO sought, IATO said in a statement.

Further a 5 year tax holiday for tour operators who are registered under GST/Shop & Establishment prior to March 15 2020 and a TDS subsidy for the next one year is also among its demands.

IATO recommends for free visa for all tourists for 12 months along with free entry to ASI monuments for one year for all foreign tourists, as and when the situation eases.

IATA Agents Association of India has urged the Centre to introduce a bailout package for the travel and tourism industry.

M

r. Biji Eapen, National President of the IATA Agents Association of India, said that the Travel, Tourism and Aviation sector in India had contributed 9.2 per cent of the GDP and now due to the Covid-19 crisis, it is passing through a very critical phase. He also added that 75 million jobs are at immediate risk in the global travel and tourism, of which 9 million would be from India by quoting various industry reports and studies global-

IATA AGENTS SEEKS REVIVAL PACKAGE FOR TRAVEL AND TOURISM SECTOR

ly. Currently, the travel and tourism businesses in India are forced to lay off their employees and remain apprehensive over the looming business situations, including liquidation.

The Association has urged the government to protect the salaries and jobs and extend interest-free loans as working capital to provide liquidity for large and small travel tourism businesses to resume their business. The government should also announce a moratorium on interest

IATA Agents Association of India (IAAI) has approached and requested Minister for Civil Aviation Mr. Hardeep S. Puri to waive off all the corresponding penalties/ fees or other charges levied for ticket cancellations, refund, and reissue or rescheduling process payments of all existing working capital loans and cash credit overdraft for next 12 months. The government should also waive or remove all dues, taxes, or fiscal charges for the next 12 months that affect cash flow.

The Association is planning a nationwide signature campaign to mobilise support from the industry as the government is in the process of introducing a simulation package for the economy, he added. IAAI invited entrepreneurs, employees, other stakeholders in the sector to participate and support the campaign.

MAY 2020 Tourism India

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NEWS/ NATIONAL

DOMESTIC TOURIST ARRIVALS TAMILNADU & MAHARASHTRA RETAIN THEIR TOP POSITIONS

2

Uttar Pradesh 28,50,79,848

5

Maharashtra*

8

Madhya Pradesh

% share - 15.37% 23,39,77,619-2017

*11,91,91,539

% Share - 6.43 % * 11,91,91,539 (2017)

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8,39,69,799

% Share - 4.53% 7,80,38,522(2017)

MAY 2020 Tourism India

3

Karnataka 21,43,06,456

6

Telengana

9

% Share -11.55% 17,99,80,191 (2017)

9,28,78,329

% Share - 5.01% 8,52,66,596 (2017)

Gujarat 5,43,69,873 % Share - 2.93% 4,83,43,121(2017)

Most of the States/UTs have generally shown increase in the number of domestic tourist visits, during 2018 and the States/UTs which recorded decline in domestic tourist visits in 2018 over 2017 were Assam, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh

1

Tamil Nadu 38,59,09,376

% Share - 20.80% 34,50,61,140 (2017)

4

Andhra Pradesh

19,47,67,874

7

% Share -10.50% 16,54,33,898 (2017)

West Bengal

8,56,57,365

% Share - 4.62% 7,96,30,345 (2017)

10

Rajasthan 5,02,35,643

% Share - 2.71% 4,59,16,573 (2017)

11

Punjab 4,45,95,061

12

14

Bihar

15

% Share - 2.40% 4,02,93,352 - 2017

17

3,36,21,613

% Share - 1.81% 32414063 - 2017

J &K

1,70,76,315

14235473 - 2017 % Share - 0.92%

18

Uttarakhand 3,56,09,650 % Share - 1.92% 3,43,59,989- ‘17

Delhi

2,91,14,423

% Share - 1.57%

Himachal Pradesh

1,60,93,935

19130541- 2017 % Share - 0.87%

13

Jharkhand 3,54,08,822

% Share - 1.91% 3,37,23,185 - ‘17

16 1,93,29,501

Chhattisgarh % Share - 1.04% 17350030 - 2017

19

Kerala

1,56,04,661

14673520- 2017 % Share - 0.84%

20 1,52,08,540 21 70,81,559 22 60,52,667 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36

Odisha

Goa

Assam

1,40,11,229- 2017 % Share - 0.82%

68,95,234- 2017 % Share - 0.38%

58,56,282- 2017 % Share - 0.32%

State / UT 2018 2017 % Share Haryana 60,50,325 48,88,952 0.26% Puducherry 16,16,660 15,31,972 0.09% Chandigarh 15,38,796 14,25,781 0.08% Sikkim 14,26,127 13,75,854 0.08% Meghalaya 11,98,340 9,90,856 0.06% Daman & Diu 8,98,824 8,58,131 0.05% Dadra & Nagar Haveli 6,09,435 6,14,182 0.03% Arunachal Pradesh 5,12,436 4,44,005 0.03% Andaman & Nicobar 4,98,279 4,71,919 0.03% Tripura 4,14,388 3,98,669 0.02% Manipur 1,76,109 1,53,454 0.01% Nagaland 1,01,588 63,362 Mizoram 76,551 67,772 Lakshadweep 10,435 6,620

Total Domestic Tourists - 185,49,33,384 MAY 2020 Tourism India

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NEWS/ GLOBAL TRAVEL According to UNWTO International tourism down 22% in Q1 and could decline by 60-80% over the whole year 2020. The social and economic benefits that tourism offers can return, providing a path to sustainable recovery for both individuals and whole countries

T

he COVID-19 pandemic has prompted all destinations worldwide to introduce restrictions on travel, research by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has found. This represents the most severe restriction on international travel in history and no country has so far lifted restrictions introduced in response to the crisis.

Following up on previous research, the latest data from the United Nations specialized agency for tourism shows that 100% of destinations now have restrictions in place.

Of these, 83% have had COVID-19-related restrictions in place already for four or more weeks and, as of 20 April, so far no destination has lifted them.

Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General, UNWTO said: “Tourism has shown its commitment to putting people first. Our sector can also lead the way in driving recovery.

This research on global travel restrictions will help support the timely and responsible implementation of exit strategies, allowing destinations to ease or lift travel restrictions when it is safe to do so. This way, the social and economic benefits that tourism offers can return, providing a path to sustainable recovery for both individuals and whole countries.”

Tracking Restrictions Time and Severity

by

As well as a general overview, the UNWTO reAs well as a general overview, the UNWTO research breaks down the type of travel restrictions that have been introduced by 20

MAY 2020 Tourism India

100% OF GLOBAL

DESTINATIONS

NOW HAVE

COVID-19 TRAVEL

RESTRICTIONS destinations in all of the global regions, while also plotting the evolution of these restrictions since 30 January – when the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The latest analysis shows that, of 217 destinations worldwide: 45% have totally or partially closed their borders for tourists - “Passengers are not allowed to enter” 30% have suspended totally or partially international flights - “all flights are suspended” 18% are banning the entry for passengers from specific countries of origin or passengers who have transited through specific destinations 7% are applying different measures, such as quarantine or self-isolation for 14 days and visa measures.

Against this backdrop, UNWTO has been leading calls for governments worldwide to commit to supporting tourism through this unprecedented challenge. According to Secretary-General Pololikashvili, the sudden and unexpected fall in tourism demand caused by COVID-19 places millions of jobs and livelihoods at risk while at the same time jeopardising the advances made in sustainable development and equality over recent years.

The COVID19pandemic has caused a 22% fall in international tourist arrivals during the first quarter of 2020, the latest data from the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) shows. According to the United Nations specialized agency, the crisis could lead to an annual decline of between 60% and 80% when compared with 2019 figures.

This places millions of livelihoods at risk and threatens to roll back progress made in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

MAY 2020 Tourism India

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NEWS/ GLOBAL TRENDS

WORLD TOURISM REMAINS AT A STANDSTILL

100% OF COUNTRIES IMPOSE RESTRICTIONS ON TRAVEL

C

OVID-19 has laced the whole world on lockdown, with new research from the World Tourism Organization showing that 100% of global destinations continue to have restrictions on travel in place, and 72% have completely closed their borders to international tourism.

The COVID-19 pandemic has

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MAY 2020 Tourism India

caused a 22% fall in international tourist arrivals during the first quarter of 2020, the latest data from the World Tourism Organization shows. According to the U N W T O the crisis could lead to an annual decline of between 60% and 80% when compared with 2019 figures.

This places millions of livelihoods

at risk and threatens to roll back progress made in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

From the start of the crisis, INWTO, the United Nations specialized agency for tourism has been tracking responses to the pandemic. This latest research shows that while discussions on possible first measures for lifting restrictions are underway, 100% of destinations worldwide still have COVID-19 related travel restrictions for international tourists in place.

Out of all 217 destinations worldwide, 156 (72%) have placed a complete stop on international tourism according to the data collected as of 27 April 2020. In 25% of destinations, restrictions have been in place for at least three months, while in 40% of destinations, restrictions were introduced at least two months ago.

Most importantly, the research also found that no destination has so far lifted or eased travel restrictions.

UNWTO Secretary-General Mr Zurab Pololikashvili said: “The world is facing an unprecedented health

and economic crisis. Tourism has been hit hard, with millions of jobs at risk in one of the most labourintensive sectors of the economy.

Tourism has been the hardest hit of all the major sectors as countries lockdown and people stay at home.

UNWTO calls on governments to work together to coordinate the easing and lifting of restrictions in a timely and responsible manner, when it is deemed safe to do so.

Tourism is a lifeline to millions, especially in the developing world.

Opening the world up to tourism again will save jobs, protect livelihoods and enable our sector to resume its vital role in driving sustainable development.�

Available data reported by destinations point to a 22% decline in arrivals in the first three months of the year, according to the latest UNWTO World Tourism Barometer.

Arrivals in March dropped sharply by 57% following the start of a lockdown in many countries, as well as the widespread introduction of travel restrictions and the closure of airports and national borders.

This translates into a loss of 67 million international arrivals and about US$80 billion in receipts (exports from tourism).

Restrictions Common Across All Global Regions

The UNWTO research tracks measures taken since the end of January, when the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

Breaking the research down by region, UNWTO has found that

Impact of the loss of demand in international travel could translate into the loss of 850 million to 1.1 billion international tourists, loss of US$910 billion to US$1.2 trillion in export revenues from tourism and 100 to 120 million direct tourism jobs at risk 83% of destinations in Europe have introduced complete closure of borders for international tourism.

In the Americas, this proportion stands at 80%, in Asia and the Pacific it is 70%, in the Middle East it is 62% and in Africa it is 57%.

Although Asia and the Pacific shows the highest impact in relative and absolute terms (-33 million arrivals), the impact in Europe, though lower in percentage, is quite high in volume (-22 million).

UNWTO has been working closely with international organizations, national governments and the private sector, to support the responsible and timely recovery of tourism. Within the past two weeks, UNWTO Secretary-General has addressed Ministers of the G20 and of the EU Commission, making the case for tourism to be made a priority as countries look to recover from the crisis.

Opening the world up to tourism again will save jobs, protect livelihoods and enable our sector

to resume its vital role in driving sustainable development

Experts see recovery in 2021

According to the UNWTO Panel of Experts survey, Domestic demand is expected to recover faster than international demand. The majority expects to see signs of recovery by the final quarter of 2020 but mostly in 2021. Based on previous crises, leisure travel is expected to recover quicker, particularly travel for visiting friends and relatives, than business travel.

The estimates regarding the recovery of international travel are more positive in Africa and the Middle East with most experts foreseeing recovery still in 2020.

Experts in the Americas are the least optimistic and least likely to believe in recovery in 2020, while in Europe and Asia the outlook is mixed, with half of the experts expecting to see recovery within this year.

Towards a Responsible Re-Opening

UNWTO has been working closely with international organizations, national governments, and the private sector, to support the responsible and timely recovery of tourism. Within the past two weeks, UNWTO Secretary-General has addressed Ministers of the G20 and of the EU Commission, making the case for tourism to be made a priority as countries look to recover from the crisis.

Opening the world up to tourism again will save jobs, protect livelihoods, and enable our sector to resume its vital role in driving sustainable development.

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NEWS/ GLOBAL TRAVEL

OVER 100 T MILLION JOBS LOSSES IN THE TRAVEL & TOURISM SECTORWTTC The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) calls upon G20 tourism ministers to lead a united and coordinated recovery for the Travel & Tourism sector out of the COVID-19 crisis.

WTTC, which represents the global Travel & Tourism private sector, says only the G20 has the power to influence and drive forward a coordinated recovery effort needed to preserve the sector.

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he punishing impact of the COVID-19 crisis has led to over one million jobs already being lost every day. The Travel & Tourism sector faces a staggering 100 million job losses due to the coronavirus pandemic. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), the startling figure has increased by over 30% in the last four weeks, indicating the sheer crisis affecting the sector.

The WTTC has alerted G20 Tourism Ministers to the extent of the crisis, as they gathered by the virtual conference.

Of the 100.8 million jobs at risk, almost 75 million of them are in G20 countries.

WTTC analysis also shows a sharp escalation in the economic loss to the world economy, up to US$2.7 trillion of GDP, from US$2.1 trillion just a month ago.

Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: “This is a staggering and deeply worrying change in such a short time. In just the last month alone, our research shows an increase of 25 million in the number of job losses in Travel & Tourism.

The whole cycle of tourism is being wiped out by the pandemic.

“We have alerted the G20 Tourism Ministers, meeting today, to the extent of the crisis and advised on how governments need to step in swiftly to support and protect our sector.

Travel & Tourism is the backbone of the global economy. Without it, global economies will struggle to recover in any meaningful way and hundreds of millions of people will suffer enormous financial and mental damage for years to come.”

Travel & Tourism contributes 10.3% of Global GDP, is responsible for generating one in four of the world’s new jobs, and for nine successive years, has outpaced the growth of the global economy.

“The G20’s proven record, which powered the recovery following the financial crisis in 2008, and the recent decisive action to freeze debt proves this forum is the best platform with the speed and agility needed, to drive forward the urgent actions required to set the pace and save the global Travel & Tourism sector and enable it to survive and thrive”.

Ms. Gloria Guevara, President & CEO, WTTC

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NEWS/ GLOBAL TRENDS

ASIA PACIFIC U VISITOR NUMBERS LIKELY TO REDUCE BY 32% IN 2020, BUT RETURN IN 2021

nder the newly updated forecasts from the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), the most likely scenario for international visitor arrivals into and across Asia Pacific in 2020 is that visitor numbers are likely to reduce by 32% year-on-year. Taking into account the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the volume of arrivals is now expected to reduce to fewer than 500 million this year.

That effectively takes visitor volume back to levels last seen in 2012. At this stage, growth is expected to resume in 2021, returning to forecast levels by 2023. Much of course, depends on how quickly and completely the COVID-19 pandemic is contained and controlled. A more optimistic scenario suggests arrivals still falling in 2020 but by 16% yearon-year while a pessimistic narrative predicts a reduction of approximately 44%.

The impacts are expected to be most severe in Asia, especially Northeast Asia, which is now predicted to lose almost 51% of its visitor volume between 2019 and 2020 (most likely scenario), followed by South Asia with a reduction of 31%, and then Southeast Asia with a 22% drop in visitor arrivals. West Asia is projected to lose almost six percent

The COVID 19 impacts are expected to be most severe in Asia, especially Northeast Asia, which is now predicted to lose almost 51% of its visitor volume between 2019 and 2020 (most likely scenario), followed by South Asia with a reduction of 31%, and then Southeast Asia with a 22% drop in visitor arrivals. West Asia is projected to lose almost six percent in visitor arrivals, followed by the Pacific with a projected contraction of 18%, and the Americas with a loss of a little under 12%.

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in visitor arrivals, followed by the Pacific with a projected contraction of 18%, and the Americas with a loss of a little under 12%.

Recovery rates relative to 2019 are expected to occur in most destination regions/sub-regions

in 2020, however, Northeast Asia is likely to take a little longer and exceed the 2019 volume of arrivals in 2022.

The same is essentially true for visitor receipts as well as they are expected to drop by 27% between

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NEWS/ GLOBAL TRAVEL 2019 and 2020 under the most likely scenario, reducing to US$594 billion, significantly below the original 2020 forecast of US$811 billion.

Asia is expected to lose more than US$170 billion (-36%), with Northeast Asia predicted to lose more than US$123 billion (-48%) under this most likely scenario, followed by South Asia with a US$13.3 billion loss (-33%) and Southeast Asia with a US$34.6 billion shortfall (-20%). The Americas is projected to lose more than US$35 billion (-13%) and the Pacific US$18 billion (-18%).

Here, recovery at the annual level is expected to return more quickly across most regions/sub-regions, with perhaps the Pacific taking a little longer to return to 2019 levels.

PATA CEO Dr. Mario Hardy noted

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that, “This is first and foremost an unfolding human tragedy, with a dire loss of life and for millions more, a loss of income while businesses are closed, and many remain in self-quarantine or follow social distancing guidelines. We can only hope that this pandemic is brought under absolute control quickly and effectively, enabling the global travel and tourism industry to get back on its feet, re-employ the millions of people who lost their positions and create even more employment opportunities both directly and for the upstream and downstream sectors that rely on it”.

“While there are obvious reductions in arrivals, there still remains a significant volume of visitors expected into Asia Pacific through 2020, with just under

half-a-billion such travellers still generating almost US$600 billion, with each visitor still requiring and expecting the attention and service that this region has become famous for delivering,” he added.

“Nevertheless, perceptions are difficult to change so recovery might take longer in the minds of many potential travellers.

This however gives us time to reconsider the position we had created up to 2019; if numbers return only slowly, the obvious imperative will be to offer travellers such incentives that they remain in the destination longer and see more of what it has to offer. The metric should therefore shift from the numbers of arrivals, to time spent in any one destination and the dispersion across it. Receipts will then follow.”

PATA LAUNCHES

CRISIS RESOURCE CENTER AND TOURISM RECOVERY MONITOR The travel and tourism industry has weathered many different types of crises; however, the current unprecedented pandemic poses a severe threat to the entire industry impacting the economic livelihood of millions of people around the world

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he Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has announced the launch of the PATA Crisis Resource Center and Tourism Recovery Monitor on April 02, 2020, a unified platform that provides reliable and up-to-date policy statements, authoritative information, and tourism indicators from around the globe. The aim is to provide a global centralised repository of reliable information for users based on their needs.

The PATA Crisis Resource Center is a result of a pilot Expert Task Force (ETF) led by PATA Immediate Past Chair Sarah Mathews to accumulate knowledge, generate support, and help members and industry stakeholders across the globe access solutions by governments, while also assisting governments in understanding the challenges through the travel impact survey.

PATA Vice Chair Soon Hwa Wong also led an ETF to establish the PATA Tourism Recovery Monitor, an integrated resource for strategic tourism planners and decision makers to keep fully abreast of the fast changing environment. Both initiatives are housed under one microsite.

Ms Mathews said, “The travel and tourism industry has weathered many different types of crises; however, the current unprecedented pandemic poses a severe threat to the entire industry

impacting the economic livelihood of millions of people around the world. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) up to 75 millions jobs are at immediate risk globally, while travel and tourism GDP loss to the world economy is up to US$2.1 trillion. Therefore, I felt it was critical that we brought together global crisis experts like Damian Cook of E-Tourism Frontiers, Willem Niemeijer of YAANA Ventures, and Greg Klassen of Twenty31 to help create a long term Crisis Resource Center. The center will be a unified source of information for travel and tourism organisations to find solutions to the current crisis.”

“We are launching with two key areas of focus; one is to house all the efforts across the globe by governments who have and are providing aid, relief, and support for their industry stakeholders within the resource center. Secondly, we are asking for the industry to complete a business impact survey in order to use those results to request for more government support for our industry. Whilst the current focus is on COVID-19 as a public health issue, the goal is to establish a long term resource center for the industry to utilize when we face any future crisis.

The travel and tourism industry is incredibly resilient, and travel will continue to inspire millions

of people across the world,” she added.

“In crisis management, we need to have the latest status of the situation. For post crisis recovery planning, we need reliable data, updates and developing trends at our disposal. Timing is everything especially when it relates to the execution of recovery efforts. Too early could result in a complete waste of resources. Too late could risk being one of the last off the starting block,” said Mr Wong. “The PATA Tourism Recovery Monitor (PTRM) is designed to be the goto resource for strategic tourism planners and decision makers to keep fully abreast of the fast changing environment. Being the trusted voice of the industry, PATA has brought together an array of experts and partners to share valuable data, content and trends of leading tourism indicators to help us spot “green shoots” as soon as they start to appear. PTRM is a product of a new initiative recently announced known as the Expert Task Force (ETF) where PATA members can propose short term solutions to fix immediate challenges or introduce innovative and effective enhancements to help the association and members do better business. I am very happy to take the lead on this and encourage our members to do likewise going forward.”

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OPINION / TOURISM

WHAT LESSONS CAN AIRLINES LEARN FROM BANKS POST THE FINANCIAL CRISIS OF 2008/2009

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rises have happened throughout history; inevitably, we forget the lessons and repeat the same mistakes. The fall from grace for Banks post the GFC is still fresh in our minds– it was a mess the banks created and they suffered for it. And, it led to a significant and prolonged economic slowdown and it took a long time for the system to heal and the economy to recover to its potential (I am talking five to seven years!).

The crisis ended a period of strong growth in banking sector assets in many advanced economies. Banks were over-leveraged going into the crisis and were forced to raise capital, improve leverage, reduce business complex-

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By Aradhana Khowala CEO & Founder, Aptamind Partners

ity, and become more resilient. As a result, they and the global financial system are significantly less at risk of a liquidity crisis than before.

RAISE LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL QUICKLY During the GFC, Banks which raised a lot of capital and liquidity faster than others survived and came out of the other side much stronger. For example, US Banks went harder and much quicker to raise capital and liquidity than their European counterparts and the results are there to see in their stock performance. Today US banks are in such a strong position that they have provided $230bn in liquidity at very attractive rates to companies across all industries in March in response to the virus.

Airlines need to learn this from Banks and raise capital and liquidity fast to get through this crisis as they should plan for continued disruption for the next 12-18 months. So far, Airlines worldwide have raised more than $17 billion in bank loans in March to shore up their finances amid the coronavirus outbreak. U.S. carriers have been the most active, borrowing $12.5 billion, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

But this is clearly not enough. They need to do much more and quicker either through loans or equity issuance, otherwise, it will get more ex-

pensive as time goes by as more and more participants come under duress. This could also mean taking state aid like in the US where the industry has received $50 billion as grants and loans. Global airlines should follow suit and ask their individual governments for aid, or tap their shareholders and bondholders to provide liquidity as soon as possible.

CLEAN BALANCE SHEETS AND SIMPLIFY BUSINESS MODEL The Global Financial Crisis came after a period of a significant uninterrupted boom that led to excessive lending and risk-taking by Banks unsupported by adequate capital and liquidity buffers. As a result of the financial crisis, regulators imposed demanding capital and liquidity standards, stronger supervision, and more explicit resolution frameworks on Banks. This resulted in significant shifts in the Bank’s business models like them tending to reorient their business away from trading and more complex activities, towards less cap-

ital-intensive activities like commercial banking.

Airlines have been overly dependent on growth in travel and overleveraged themselves rather than depend on productivity gains to deliver growth in the last ten years. We can see this in the huge order book of aircraft with Boeing and Airbus prior to the crisis. We will likely witness many changes in the Aviation sector as a result of the current crisis some forced other voluntary like re-assessing and adjusting their business strategies, revising growth plans, balance sheet positions, cost bases, organizational structures, the scope of activities, geographic presence and improving governance.

MERGE, CONSOLIDATE TO BECOME MORE EFFICIENT

The number of U.S. banks has been continuously reducing from 14,500 Banks in the mid-1980s to 5,600 Banks today. The Global Financial Crisis accelerated this consolidation and simplification of

the banking sector. The subscale players in the business had only 2 options post the crisis – declare bankruptcy or consolidate into bigger players.

We expect to see the same level of consolidation in Airlines. Owners of Airlines that are less profitable, less efficient, and in weaker condition (in the sense they are more susceptible to future financial problems) need to make significant decisions – either fold or exit the industry by selling their businesses, while profitable and efficient Airlines may look for opportunities to expand. Airlines struggling with legacy asset problems; Airlines with weak income generation capacity; and Airlines suffering from a combination of cost and revenue-side problems all will make great acquisition targets. The common cost inefficiency problem seems most pronounced for the largest and smallest players. In addition to potentially increasing revenue, a merger can generate substantial efficiency gains.

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NEWS / AIRLINES

A ACI AND IATA CALL FOR URGENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE TO PROTECT JOBS AND OPERATIONS

irports Council International (ACI) World and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have come together to call for governments to quickly grant financial relief to assist airport operators and airlines during the unprecedented COVID-19 crisis and support the essential connectivity the industry will provide for economic recovery.

The industry is united with governments around the world in efforts to stop the spread of the virus, and, in the face of massive government imposed travel restrictions, the industry is doing all it can to maintain air cargo operations vital to supporting global supply chains, including medical shipments critical to fighting COVID-19.

The economic impact of these measures on all involved in the global air transport industry has been severe. With passenger de-

Financial relief will assist the industry to lay foundation for a balanced recovery

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mand plummeting to unprecedented levels, revenues are falling beyond the ability of even the most extreme cost-cutting measures to mitigate. Airports and airlines continue to face a financial liquidity crisis.

The current state of the global air transport industry risks the loss of millions of jobs. The aviation industry supports 65.5 million jobs around the world, including 10.5 million people employed at airports and by airlines, and supports $2.7 trillion in world economic activity[1]. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to unfold, airports and airlines around the world are engaged in a battle to sustain essential operations and to preserve jobs.

ACI and IATA are calling for urgent balanced support to the industry via taxation relief, including alleviation of payroll taxes, corporate taxes, concession fees or other

government incomes from the industry loans, loan guarantees or direct support to maintain financial liquidity across the aviation ecosystem.

Some governments have recognized the urgency of action but time is running out for other governments to provide the necessary financial relief to keep the whole industry viable and ready to support a balanced recovery including ground handlers and other service providers at airports.

“The financial impact of the current crisis is unlike anything we have ever seen and requires urgent action by governments to assist the aviation industry to protect jobs, ensure essential operations, and plan for recovery,” ACI World Director General Angela Gittens said.

“Urgent tax relief and direct financial assistance that is to the benefit of the entire aviation ecosystem is

needed to help preserve millions of jobs, protect essential operations, and foster a balanced recovery.

Preserving the continuity of operations for airports and airlines and protecting aviation jobs today will result in a faster economic recovery tomorrow.”

IATA’s Director General and CEO Alexandre de Juniac said the situation could not be direr.

“Governments will depend on aviation to be ready to lead an economic recovery when this pandemic is behind us,” Mr. de Juniac said.

“Governments must act now with financial lifelines that only they can provide for airlines and airports to see them through these extraordinary times. Airlines and airports are in this together. The more financially stable our airport partners are, the more they can help the industry to drive a recovery in air travel that will jump start the global economy.”

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NEWS/ RESPONSIBLE TOURISM

IKER CASILLAS NAMED UNWTO AMBASSADOR FOR RESPONSIBLE TOURISM Football legends Lionel Messi, Andrés Iniesta, Michel Salgado, Fernando Hierro, Didier Drogba and Vicente del Bosque are the other designated Ambassadors of the UNWTO for the promotion of responsible tourism

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he World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has designated Spanish football legend and World Cup winner Mr. Iker Casillas as Special Ambassador for Responsible Tourism. In a virtual ceremony, the goalkeeper pledged to promote the universal benefits of tourism.

During the ceremony, which was held by videoconference, Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization has presented Casillas with a special plaque and thanked him for supporting tourism at a critical time when the sector has taken a hard hit and millions of jobs could be lost.

Mr. Pololikashvili said: “Sport and tourism foster the best of humanity. They promote the shared values of solidarity, teamwork and excellence.

These are qualities that the global community needs now more than ever, as we

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face the greatest challenge of a generation. As a player, Iker Casillas is a winner and a leader, and I am delighted that he has decided to support us with his personality and new ideas to promote tourism.”

For his part, Casillas expressed his appreciation for the designation and acknowledged that “inside and outside football we have a responsibility to people and to enterprises, so I am happy to be part of an organization as important as the World Tourism Organization.”

The player took the opportunity to echo the World Tourism Organization’s key message in the face of COVID-19, highlighting that “together, we can achieve it, it’s better to stay home today so that we can travel tomorrow.”

The goalkeeper, one of the game’s most outstanding players thanks to his role in Real Madrid and the Spanish national team, pledged to give greater visibility to the values of this sector on the world stage.

UNWTO RELEASES

A COVID-19 TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE PACKAGE FOR TOURISM RECOVERY We must support the tourism sector now with real actions while we prepare for it to come back and be stronger and more sustainable

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he World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has released a Tourism Recovery Technical Assistance Package to offer guidance to Member States in response to COVID-19. The package is structured around three main pillars: economic recovery, marketing and promotion and institutional strengthening and resilience building.

With tourism among the hardest-hit of all sectors, UNWTO has identified three possible scenarios for the months ahead.

Depending on when restrictions on travel are lifted, international tourist arrivals could decline by 60-80% in 2020.

This could translate into a decline in export revenues from tourism of between US$910 billion to US$1.2 trillion and place 100-120 million jobs directly at risk. The social ripple effect is also feared to be at least equally challenging for many societies the world over.

Against this backdrop, the COVID-19 Tourism Recovery Technical Assistance Package is designed to support governments, the private sector and donor agencies face this unprecedented socio-economic emergency.

UNWTO Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili says: “We must support the tourism sector

now with real actions while we prepare for it to come back and be stronger and more sustainable.

Recovery plans and programmes for tourism will translate into jobs and economic growth, not just within tourism itself but across the whole of societies. This package of support will help governments and business implement our Recommendations for Recovery” Call for action: economic, promotional and institutional measures Alongside the set of recommendations already released by UNWTO to call for action to mitigate the socioeconomic impact of COVID and endorsed by the UNWTO Global Tourism Crisis Committee, the package identified three potential areas of intervention to accelerate the recovery of tourism: economic, promotional and institutional.

The COVID-19 Tourism Recovery Technical Assistance Package makes the case for policies and measures to be introduced to stimulate the economic recovery of the tourism sector.

These should be introduced alongside the development of impact needs assessments and country-specific plans for tourism recovery, among other measures.

In terms of marketing and promotion, UNWTO stands ready

to provide technical assistance to identify markets that can help accelerate recovery, addressing product diversification, and (re) formulating marketing strategies and promotional activities.

The third pillar, institutional strengthening and resilience building, is particularly aimed at enhancing public-private partnership and promoting collaborative efforts for tourism recovery, and, enhancing skills in crisis management and recovery.

Tourism for Sustainable Development The technical support offered

by UNWTO is designed to help Members work towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Several of these Goals directly relate to tourism, most notably the SDGs 8, 12 and 17, on ‘Decent Work and Economic Growth’, ‘Responsible Consumption and Production’, and ‘Partnerships for the Goals’.

UNWTO is also working as part of the wider UN response to COVID-19, emphasizing the role tourism can play in shielding developing countries and the most vulnerable members of society from the worst impacts of the current crisis MAY 2020 Tourism India

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NEWS / STATES

The passengers include seven who had tested positive for Covid-19 and were treated successfully in Kochi

LOCKDOWN: FIRST FLIGHT FROM KERALA TO UK LEAVES T WITH 268 PASSENGERS

he first flight from lockeddown Kerala to UK took off on April 15, 2020 from Thiruvananthapuram International airport, facilitating the return of 268 tourists who had been stranded in south India since the corona pandemic put a check on public transportation.

The chartered British Airways plane left the state capital at 7.30

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The special flight arranged for the home-bound journey of the asymptomatic tourists took off from the International Airport at Trivandrum, after their hassle-free stay in the state for over a fortnight.

as usual,” she added.

Mr P Bala Kiran, Director, Kerala Tourism, noted that British nationals continue to top the list of foreigner tourists in the state by totalling onefourth of the visitors from abroad.

This is the third aircraft to repatriate stranded passengers in Kerala from Europe since the lockdown. An Air India aircraft with 232 passengers left for Germany on March 31. Four days later, second aircraft flew 112 people to France

pm, with London as the destination and Kochi as a stopover to pick 158 passengers. As many as 110 tourists boarded from here.

The passengers include seven who had tested positive for Covid-19 and were treated successfully in Kochi. They were part of a group of 19 Britons.

Mr Jeremy Pilmore-Bedford, Deputy High Commissioner, British Deputy High Commission, Bengaluru, was at the Kochi airport, supervising the repatriation operations.

Out of the 268 tourists, there are a few from Austria, Canada, Portugal, Ireland, Lithuania etc., The spread of Covid-19 had led Kerala to impose a state-wide shutdown on March 23. The next day, the Union government announced a similar exigency across the country for three weeks and subsequently till May 3.

Mr Kadakampally Surendran, Kerala’s Tourism Minister has expressed happiness over facilitating the air travel. “Upholding our spirit of treating guests like gods, we bore the expenses of those who had tested positive for the coronavirus.”

He said the guests from UK were treated to recovery at the Government Medical College Hospital in Kochi.

Ms Rani George, Secretary, Kerala Tourism, pointed out that the department had facilitated accommodation and food for those stranded in the state owing to the shutdown. “Right from setting up a corona-time helpdesk for foreign tourists a month ago, our hospitality has been exemplary MAY 2020 Tourism India

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NEWS / AIR LINES

QATAR AIRWAYS TO PRESENT

100,000 RETURN TICKETS TO FRONTLINE HEALTHCARE

PROFESSIONALS

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MAY 2020 February March 2020 2020 Tourism Tourism Tourism India India India

Giveaway will open on International Nurses Day 2020 to say a massive thank you to these heroes and Complimentary Economy Class return tickets on Qatar Airways operated flights will be fully flexible for destinations and dates

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atar Airways will give away 100,000 free tickets to frontline healthcare professionals to say thank you for their heroic work looking after people during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

By maintaining 24/7 operations in recent months, including the provision of over 100 charter flights, Qatar Airways’ mission to repatriate over one million people has received widespread praise and thanks from passengers and governments as the foremost airline taking people home. Given the airline’s work at the frontline of global efforts to repatriate stranded passengers, it now seeks to recognise and reward the world’s frontline healthcare workers.

The giveaway will open at 00.01 AM on 12 May and close at 23:59 on 18 May (Doha time). Healthcare professionals can register for this exclusive offer at qatarairways.com/ Thank You Heroes by submitting

This offer is only available for QR operated flights.

Eligible healthcare professions are limited to: Doctor, Medical practitioner, nurse, paramedic, pharmacist, lab technician and clinical researcher. A valid employer ID must be presented at the airport at the point of check in and valid until 31 December 2020. a form to receive a unique promotion code, offered on a first come, first served basis.

Healthcare professionals from every country in the world will be eligible for tickets. To ensure the application process is fair and transparent, each country will receive a daily allocation of tickets, depending on its population size, staggered over a seven day period from 12 to 18 May. The daily allocation will be released at 00:01 AM Doha time throughout the campaign period.

Healthcare professionals that receive the promotion code can book up to two complimentary Economy Class return tickets on Qatar Airways operated flights – one for themselves and one for a companion – to anywhere on the airline’s global network. Tickets must be booked before 26 November, with travel valid until 10 December 2020. The tickets will be fully flexible, with an unlimited number of destination or date changes allowed without any fees. Fare and surcharges will be waived on tickets, airport taxes apply.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “We at Qatar Airways are incredibly grateful for the commitment and hard work of healthcare professionals around the world who looked after people in these times of uncertainty. Their heroic display of kindness, dedication, and professionalism has saved hundreds of thousands of lives around the world.

“We have built a strong level of trust with passengers, governments, trade partners, and airports as a reliable partner during this crisis and we intend to continue delivering on this mission by acknowledging the incredible efforts of these heroes. Our crew and operation has never given up during these past three months, never abandoned hope or their mission to help people get home to their loved ones and we do not intend to do so now.

“United in dedication, we share our gratitude. Now it is our turn to give something back to those on the healthcare frontline. There are no words or gestures that are enough to repay these brave men and women but we hope that our small offer of a complimentary return flight on Qatar Airways will allow them to enjoy a well-deserved holiday, visit family and friends or explore a destination they have always dreamed of, as travel restrictions start to ease.”

As a further gesture of appreciation, healthcare professionals will be offered additionally a voucher with 35% discount to redeem at Qatar Duty Free retail outlets at the airline’s state-of-the-art hub, Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Doha, valid for use up to 31 December 2020.

February MAY 2020 Tourism India

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NEWS / AIR LINES

EMIRATES BECOMES FIRST AIRLINE TO CONDUCT ON-SITE COVID-19 RAPID TEST The quick blood test was conveniently done at the Group Check-in area of Dubai International Airport Terminal 3 and results were available within 10 minutes.

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mirates Airlines in coordination with Dubai Health Authority (DHA) was conducted quick blood test as a part of introducing additional precautions in its international and regional flights during the Covid 19 pandemic days. On April 15, 2020, Passengers on flight to Tunisia were all tested for COVID-19 before departing from Dubai. Emirates is the first airline in the world to conduct on-site rapid COVID-19 tests for passengers. The quick blood test was conveniently done at the Group Check-in area of Dubai International Airport Terminal 3.) and results were available within 10 minutes.

Mr. Adel Al Redha, Emirates Chief Operating Officer said: “The testing process has gone smoothly and we would like to take this opportunity to thank the Dubai Health Authority for their initiatives and innovative solutions. This would have not been possible without the support of Dubai Airport and other government authorities. We are working on plans to scale up testing capabilities in the future and extend it to other flights, this will enable us to conduct on-site tests and provide immediate confirmation for Emirates passengers travelling to countries that require COVID-19 test certificates.

The health and safety of staff and passengers at the airport remain of paramount importance.”

Mr. Humaid Al Qutami, Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), said: “We are glad to work with Emirates on the successful implementation of rapid COVID-19 testing at the airport for departing travellers. To tackle COVID-19, we have been proactively working with various governmental organisations and the private health sector and

we have implemented all necessary measures from public health protection to provision of high-quality health services in line with the latest international guidelines. We believe strongly that the most effective solutions require close partnerships with other public and private sector organisations.”

The airline’s check-in and boarding formalities have also been adapted with social distancing in mind. Protective barriers have been installed at each check-in desk to provide additional safety measures to our passengers and employees during any interaction. Gloves, masks and hand sanitisers have been made mandatory for all employees at the airport.

Passengers are also required to wear their own masks when at the airport and on board the aircraft and follow social distancing guidelines.

Emirates has modified its inflight services for health and safety reasons.

Magazines and other print reading material will not be available, and while food and beverages will continue to be offered on board, packaging and presentation will be modified to reduce contact during meal service and minimize risk of interaction. Cabin baggages are currently not accepted on flights. Carry-on items allowed in the cabin are limited to laptop, handbag, briefcase or baby items. All other items have to be checked in, and Emirates will add the cabin baggage allowance to customers’ check-in baggage allowance.

All Emirates aircraft will go through enhanced cleaning and disinfection processes in Dubai, after each journey

MOT LAUNCHES DEKHO APNA DESH LOGO DESIGN CONTEST The winner of the DekhoApnaDesh Logo contest will get a 5 nights 6 days all expenses covered holiday package for 2 to any destination in India The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has launched the ‘DekhoApnaDesh’ logo design contest on the MyGov platform. The objective of this contest is to have a logo for ‘DekhoApnaDesh’ campaign coming out of creative ideas of the citizens of the country.

DekhoApnaDesh is an initiative of the Ministry of Tourism which was launched by Mr. Prahlad Singh Patel, Union Minister for Tourism (IC), Government of India at Konark, Odisha on 24th January 2020 by releasing the content of the pledge during a function on Mygov platform. This initiative of the Ministry of Tourism is in line with the appeal of the Prime Minister of India made from the ramparts of Red Fort on 15th August 2019 in his speech asking every citizen to visit at least 15 destinations by the year 2022, to promote domestic tourism in India which is intended to enhance tourist footfalls in places of tourist interest so as to help develop the local economy.

Post lockdown and as the control over the spread of pandemic is achieved, it is widely agreed fact that domestic tourism will recover faster than international tourism. Focussing on domestic tourism potential, encouraging fellow countrymen to explore their own country, taking a much-needed break within their own borders will be a winning strategy for India.

During the lockdown period, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India as part of its ongoing engagement with industry and its audiences is organising webinars on the overall theme of ‘DekhoApnaDesh’ . The objective of this webinar series is to create awareness about and promote various tourism destinations of India – including the lesser known destinations and lesser known facets of popular destinations.

DekhoApnaDesh” Logo design Contest activity is live on My Gov, and the link is : https://www.mygov.in/task/dekho-apna-desh-logo-design-contest/ The winner of the DekhoApnaDesh Logo contest will get a 5 nights 6 days all expenses covered holiday package for 2 to any destination in India from their residence in India . The contest terms and conditions are available on MyGov.in March MAY 2020 Tourism India

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NEWS / CRUISE TRAVEL

G GENTING CRUISE LINES ANNOUNCES ENHANCED PREVENTIVE MEASURES

SETTING NEW STANDARDS FOR THE FLEET AMD THE CRUISE INDUSTRY

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enting Cruise Lines has announced the introduction of enhanced preventive measures for its Dream Cruises and Star Cruises fleet with an increase in safety levels for the cruise industry due to the continuing COVID-19 situation globally.

Cruise with Confidence with heightened on board precautionary measures to safeguard the health and well-being of all guests and crew To provide peace of mind and better understanding of the implemented precautionary measures for future cruising guests, Genting Cruise Lines has outlined detailed preventive steps for the recommencement of its Dream Cruises and Star Cruises ships in the near future, which is set to become the new norm for preventive standards for the fleet. These include stringent health screening processes and protocols prior to

embarkation and disembarkation, as well as thorough sanitization and disinfection and enhanced hygiene practices for guest cabins, various on board public areas and recreational activities, food and beverage safety and also the health of its crew members.

“At Genting Cruise Lines, the safety and health of our guests and crew are of paramount importance to us. With the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak regionally and globally, many guests as well as crew have developed higher awareness and expectations with regards to the safety and preventive measures of cruise ships,” said Mr Kent Zhu, President of Genting Cruise Lines. “As a responsible cruise company, it is our duty to adopt a pro-active approach to meet and also strive to exceed the growing expectations and concerns of the public. As such, we have carefully reviewed our prevention and response plan with the COVID-19 pandemic in mind to devise and provide enhanced and comprehensive measures across our fleet. We have taken the positive opportunity during this hiatus period to also implement comprehensive crew training to reinforce effective cleaning procedures, health and hygiene protocols and efficient guest interaction, which we will adopt as the new safety norm for our fleet and we hope for the industry too.”

Mr. Zhu added: “The public will be pleased to know for instance, that all of Genting Cruise Lines’ ships allow for 100% external fresh air to be filtered and supplied to each passenger cabin as well as on

In order to further provide peace of mind and better understanding of the implemented precautionary measures for future cruising guests, Genting Cruise Lines has outlined detailed preventive steps for the recommencement of its Dream Cruises and Star Cruises ships in the near future board public areas ensuring a constant and healthy flow of fresh air throughout the vessels. Besides that, isolated wards are available in the Medical Centre and cabins can be converted into quarantine rooms if required.”

To boost confidence in future reservations for guests, Genting Cruise Lines has also launched its “Cruise As You Wish” program in which all new and existing Dream Cruises and Star Cruises bookings prior to or on 30 October 2020 will have the flexibility to cancel up to 48 hours before sailing and receive 100% future cruise credit to be redeemed of any Dream Cruises or Star Cruises sailing embarking on or before 31 March 2021.

“With these detailed preventative measures outlined and shared to the public along with our “Cruise As You Wish” program, it is

our hope that future cruise guests will be well-equipped with accurate information and also have a comprehensive understanding of the safety and health protocols and flexible booking options in place across the Dream Cruises and Star Cruises fleet – providing assurance and peace of mind for our future guests,” continued Mr. Kent Zhu. In addition to these enhanced safety and preventive measures, Genting Cruise Lines will further collaborate with the China Cruise & Yacht Industry Association (CCYIA) to contribute to the publishing of a white paper for the cruise industry’s prevention and response plan against COVID-19, providing a comprehensive and unified standard for the cruise industry to ensure the safety and well-being of all cruising guests and crew members.

A further vote of confidence was provided by the Asia Cruise Terminal Association (ACTA). In endorsing the measures, Chairman of ACTA, Singapore Cruise Centre said, “ACTA and all its members endorses Genting Cruise Lines’ initiative and pledge to support these procedures throughout its member ports located across the region including in China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore and Taiwan.

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NEWS/ CRUISE TRAVEL

CRUISE INDUSTRY

FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY OF PASSENGERS, CREW AND THE COMMUNITIES IN THE PLACES

A

s the world continues to address challenges regarding COVID-19, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has been working with local and national governments around the world, as well as leading health authorities and our partners across the wider cruise community to

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coordinate our efforts during the ongoing suspension of worldwide cruise operations.

As the result of aggressive measures adopted by CLIA oceangoing cruise lines in response to COVID-19 based on prevailing guidance from global health authorities, including the U.S. Centers for Disease Con-

Cruise Lines International Association has updated on Cruise Industry Response To COVID-19 trol and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Those measures include rigorous screening protocols, enhanced sanitation measures and the availability of onboard medical care and treatment 24/7 the vast majority of more than 270 cruise ships within the CLIA member fleet were not affected by this virus.

Since this virus can affect any setting where people come together to socialize and enjoy shared experiences, CLIA oceangoing cruise lines took the unprecedented step to voluntarily suspend worldwide operations, making the cruise industry one of the first to do so.

Unfortunately, the suspension of cruise operations will have a pronounced detrimental effect on the global economy.

The cruise industry generates more than $150 billion per year in global economic activity and supports over 1.17 million jobs worldwide. Cruising touches almost every sector, from transportation and agriculture, to hospitality and tourism, manufacturing and beyond.

By Mr Gopinath Nair

TRAVEL & LIFE AFTER

OPINION / INDUSTRY

COVID-19

W

e live in very uncertain times – this would probably be a big understatement. Since I started my career in the early 80’s I have seen many ups and downs in our industry. There have been innumerable challenges and problems facing our industry. We faced rising oil prices and a resultant exorbitant increase in airfares.

We weathered gradual erosion and finally almost complete obliteration of airline agency commis-

sions and what we took for granted for many years – the real creamy PLB’s. We have seen businesses crash due to devastating Tsunamis in many parts of the world. Our industry (which includes hospitality) has faced the onslaught of natural disasters like SARS and earthquakes from time to time. We have seen wars and terrorism wipe out entire destination markets for months and years. Many of us have been impacted directly or indirectly by the entry and prolif-

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FEATURE / HOSPITALITY eration of online players.

Yet we have faced all of the above with gusto and resilience and come out stronger and risen like a proverbial Phoenix to find new paths and routes, new technologies and processes for us to survive and grow.

Uncharted Territory With COVID 19, we are on the completely unchartered territory.

I don’t think anybody can say with any degree of confidence as to how long this will last, how many people across the world will succumb to the deadly virus and the extend of the trail of destruction to individuals, families, communities, and businesses Covid19 will leave behind when it finally ends. The very fact that we have no successfully developed vaccine to prevent or medicines to treat a patient, means we are in for a long haul. There are wild predictions being made around the world on how long this is going to last, but I am sure even the best of predictions paint a sorry picture, So, what is in store for professionals like us in the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry? I will try and analyses the situation and present a few scenarios. At the end of this article, I will also try and project a few ways on how we can cope up and come out on top. What can one expect in the coming months?

For travel and tourism businesses:

a.

Pressure on revenues: As clients would be slow and cautious in making new travel plans for non-essential travel, be it for business or holiday, it would take months for your cash registers to start ringing again. I get a feeling that clients will take to video and au46

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dio conferencing in a big way and frame stringer travel policies.

While the I part of the MICE industry would still be reasonably insulated, it would still take months before decision-makers agree to incentive trips.

Conferences and meetings are bound to be impacted more as clients try and reduce most travel for meetings and conferences.

The convention industry would be slow to recover, given that participant numbers may be impacted and costs may escalate due to increased input costs once things start looking up. b.

There would be pressure to keep costs low. Many large organizations are likely to re-look at their staff strengths and may even resort to reducing permanent staffing and introduce temping in a few noncritical roles. Smaller and tightly run companies will continue to look at costs carefully. Employees will be forced to adorn multiple roles if they want to keep their jobs. c. There would be an increased focus on training and development to meet new challenges. Classroom training is likely to be replaced by online training for mundane tasks. d.

Employees will be offered “work from home” opportunities with slightly reduces wages. e.

Businesses will try and reduce rents and may move to less expensive real estate in the outer

fringes of cities, keeping a small rep office in CBD areas. f. To remain relevant in a changing market, new products with attractive pricing will play a key role. g.

There would be a continued focus on reducing advertising and marketing costs; this can lead to a huge reduction in spending on print and TV ads. h. This is as good a time as any to update your website, clean up and tighten your terms and conditions, and get ready for when a business does pick up after COVID.

For employees

a. Serious threat to employees who don’t perform, as managers and owners are likely to weed them out first. b.

This is a great time to upskill. Learn a new language, a new skill (like XL), or just increase your destination knowledge and Geography. c.

Update your CV. Take help from professional CV writers if required so that you can project your skills and experience in a structured and cohesive manner. d.

Volunteer to do more work at the office – ask for new jobs and

opportunities; make your self as useful as possible to your employer. Never say no to any opportunity or task assigned. In short, make it a habit to constantly go “above and beyond” the call of duty.

The way forward

Travel and tourism organizations would do well to focus on some of the following fundamentals to survive and grow: Maintain and update your client mailing lists Connect with them, even if to enquire about their wellbeing. Out of sight is often out of mind!

Up-skill and train your team – put this “break” to good use to enhance products and skills Specific to the Indian market, I expect domestic tourism to be the savior – VFR, leisure, and pilgrimage. So, if your business does not include Domestic, you could lose out as Outbound and Inbound

would take far longer to hit the comeback trail.

Safety, a key factor

For destinations and hoteliers, there are testing times ahead as you try and woo back customers.

Creativity in products and pricing coupled with smart communication strategies would have to be key to your fortunes. Customers would become increasingly choosy as they plan their next vacation or corporate event, so it would be a smart operator or destination that grabs his business. A key factor in decision making would be “Safety” more than ever before – so your communication strategies and action on the ground would have to ensure a very safe environment for success.

This could also have a great impact on consumer behavior, as perceptions of safety could outweigh price advantages. One classic ex-

ample is the Cruise product which could suffer from fears of community transmission of contagious deceases as thousands of people milling around in a small, closed environment. Cruise operators would have to focus on the health aspect and effectively highlight them in their communications.

This may also be an opportune time for insurance companies to create “Business interruption” insurance products to cover loss of income that a business suffers after a disaster. Indian travel and tourism companies would greatly benefit from such covers.

Similarly, employers should also seriously consider providing insurance cover to employees to protect them with continued wages and benefits.

All is not lost. As they say, every challenge brings a new opportunity. Grab it and tailor your business plans to be ready to rise again!

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NEWS / AIR LINES

QATAR AIRWAYS ANNOUNCES PHASED REBUILDING OF NETWORK Initial 52 Destinations by End of May and 80 in June

Q

atar Airways has announced the airline will begin a phased approach to expanding its network in line with passenger demand evolution and the expected relaxation of entry restrictions around the world.

Having maintained flights to at least 30 destinations where possible during this crisis and to most continents, helping to take over 1 million people home, the airline

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has been in a unique position to closely monitor global passenger flows and booking trends to confidently begin planning the gradual reintroduction of additional flights and destinations to its network.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker said: “Throughout this crisis our passengers have been at the centre of our focus. Our airline has implemented industry-lead-

ing hygiene practices and commercial policies enabling our passengers to book and travel with confidence. We have maintained a flexible and agile network to help take over 1 million people home through our state of the art hub in Doha and to transport more than 100,000 tons of essential medical and aid supplies to where they are needed.

“As we follow the indicators of the global travel market on a daily basis, we continue to focus on our mission - how we can enable mobility for our customers and provide them with seamless connectivity to their final destination. We have built a strong level of trust with passengers, governments, trade and airports as a reliable partner during this crisis and we intend to continue delivering on this mission as we gradually expand our network.”

While the situation remains hugely dynamic, Qatar Airways has made a number of assumptions based on its unique perspective, having been one of the only carriers to operate globally in recent months. With entry restrictions constantly evolving, accurately predicting future trav-

el is challenging. However, while the expectation is that short haul travel will rebound first, business between large global cities will pick up more gradually and there will be a move towards visiting family and friends following months of lockdowns.

Qatar Airways will take full advantage of its diverse and efficient fleet with the right aircraft size to ensure the best fit for expected demand on each planned route. By the end of June, the aim is to have 80 destinations in the schedule including 23 in Europe, four in the Americas, 20 in Middle East/Africa and 33 in Asia-Pacific. Many cities will be served with a strong schedule with daily or more frequencies.

QR has announced 80 destinations in the schedule includes 23 in Europe, 4 in the Americas, 20 in Middle East/ Africa and 33 in Asia-Pacific.

The gradual expansion will focus initially on strengthening connections between the airline’s hub in Doha with the global hubs of its partner airlines around the world including London, Chicago, Dallas and Hong Kong along with reopening many major business and leisure destinations such as Madrid and Mumbai.

Currently the airline continues to operate flights to more than 30 destinations around the world. By the end of May, the airline plans to grow its network back to over 50 destinations resuming services to cities such as Manila, Amman, and Nairobi. A further number of destinations are planned to be added by the end of June.

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NEWS / NEWS AIRLINES AIRLINE

EMIRATES HONOURS TEA LEGEND MERRILL J. FERNANDO The founder of Dilmah celebrates his 70th year in the tea industry.

There’s a saying that oolong, a Chinese tea variety, develops depth in flavour and sophistication as it ages, transforming into a finer and smoother version of itself.

Everyone can agree this is the case with Merill J. Fernando, the legendary tea-maker and founder of one of the world’s most celebrated brands, Dilmah. Emirates wished the South Asian industrialist a happy 90th birthday and a historic 70 years at the apex of the tea industry.

In a video greeting Darren Bott, Emirates Vice President of Catering, Global Food & Beverage, praised the tea legend, while highlighting the partnership that Emirates and Dilmah have forged over 28 years. He said: “It goes without saying that you are an industry legend and a father figure of the international tea community.

It is an absolute pleasure for me and the Emirates team to have worked alongside you for the past 50

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28 years.”

Chai, cha, chiya or chaya, as it’s referred to regionally holds a special place in Indian culture and is an ideal companion for daydreaming or unwinding after a hectic day.

From bonding over clay cups served by the beloved chaiwallahs to hosting glamourous garden tea parties, India runs on chai.

Sipping Dilmah’s Earl Grey Tea or any of the other local Black Tea varieties served onboard Emirates flights transport passengers to the lush tea gardens of India. It is one among many efforts by Emirates to make Indians feel at home at 40,000 feet and show its continued commitment to making every flight an extraordinary experience.

Since 1992, Emirates has been serving 12 different varieties of Dilmah tea in its lounges and onboard its flights. Behind every blend is the passion of Dilmah’s founder, Merill J. Fernando, who launched the brand with the aim to

produce the finest, freshest quality tea made from hand-picked leaves from the central hills of Sri Lanka.

All Economy Class passengers can enjoy the Dilmah experience with a cup of Premium Ceylon Black Tea or Natural Green Tea. “As you know, at Emirates we take great pride in serving your tea selections on board, and over the course of our 28-year partnership we have together created some fantastic money-can’t-buy experiences for our guests. The most recent was our world’s highest tea master class aboard one of our A380s in the bar when you and I hosted our guests,” added Mr. Bott in his video greeting.

Each year, Emirates brews over 33 million cups of Dilmah tea from the specially curated tea menu available in all classes, taking the Dilmah brand to more than 150 destinations across the six continents. The longstanding partnership between Emirates and Dilmah has resulted in brewing the finest Ceylon teas onboard and at Emirates Lounges around the world.

Emirates & Dilmah

THE PERFECT BREW

A long-term partnership serving the finest teas on board and in the airport lounges

TEA FACTS

MOST POPULAR TEAS FIRST CLASS

BUSINESS CLASS

Moroccan Mint

25+ 33M YEAR PARTNERSHIP CUPS OF TEA A YEAR

English Breakfast

ECONOMY CLASS

12 DILMAH TEAS

Dilmah Ceylon Black Tea

AVAILABLE ACROSS ALL CLASSES INCLUDING AN EMIRATES SIGNATURE TEA PREMIUM CEYLON

IN THE MOOD FOR TEA

Need ENERGY for your next big adventure? Try

MOROCCAN MINT GREEN TEA

Feeling NERVOUS for the big meeting you’re flying

in for? Try PEPPERMINT TEA

Need a SOOTHING drink as you get comfortable for the night flight? Try CHAMOMILE TEA

Feeling ANXIOUS about flying with your child?

Try GREEN TEA

Need to be ALERT as you embark on your movie marathon on Emirates ice? Try a BLACK TEA like EARL GREY or ENGLISH BREAKFAST

Need a PICK-ME-UP aer a long

trip? Try TURMERIC, COCONUT and

VANILLA TEA with antioxidants

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COLUMN / TRAVEL TRENDS

RE-STARTING TRAVEL: REPUTATIONS & FRONTLINES

M

ore than a month after the Corona-lockdown season in India, which is now more uncertain than when it began, everyone ranging from children to CXOs are raring to go out and feel the air, walk on grass and just let themselves loose. Young Frida, BBC Travel Show’s youngest Reporter and her dreams should give the industry a lot of hope.

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As we continue our search for answers as to who is best placed to re-start the travel engine, here’s a little light on the #FrontLinesInTravel which may prove as important as anything, to start with.

There are two key FrontLines that emerge in the fight back by travel.

The line that differentiates between both however blur at several points. And they are so very crucial

By Binu Philip Tourism & Marketing Consultant

The biggest concern among travellers will be the (Covid19-inflicted) Reputation of affected destinations for destinations, hotels/resorts, airports, airlines, tour companies and anyone and everyone else.

Before we get to the two, let’s also understand that the mental make up of the travellers in an immediate post Covid-19 situation. It will be a heady mix of the excitement to let oneself free from the barricades of the four-wall-siege of many weeks/months on the

one side; and on the other, a bit of nervousness regarding post-Covid safety (as a health issue).

There are two major challenges the industry has to stand up to. The biggest concern among travellers will be the (Covid19-inflicted) Reputation of affected destinations.

The darker the shade, the more serious is the reputation crisis a destination and every other service provider connected with the destination gets affected. At this stage it is safe to conclude that most places of interest have a very badly battered reputation. That needs fixing. It is a health-fixing and not PR-fixing that is required. To come out of this crisis may take time, if not ages. Most airlines and airports that have taken action believe that a pre-Covid19 situation is unlikely before 2022. So the Reputation Crisis of a destination is a real one.

The Second big challenge, as in all other cases is that travel is changing forever. Travel is going to be a tad more inconvenient than what it is now, with stringent measures, seemingly unfriendly (when a lot of things change). Remember the huge changes in security protocols post 9/11? We are in a similar zone.

In order to overcome these two challenges and get the traveller excited enough to take the plunge disregarding the inconveniences and safety concerns, FrontLines will play a big rile. The two FrontLines in travel will be: one, the first line of travellers who will travel to various places and make use of several services; and two, the first touch points these travellers will encounter at these places or virtually.

The reason why these ‘FrontLines’ are going to play a crucial role is: no matter how much marketing is done and offers doled out for travellers, and no matter how loud destinations and services say they are ready or more specifically Corona-ready, ultimately what will matter is confidence of travellers to travel. Such confidence among travellers will stem from how the ‘Word of Mouth’ from the first line of travellers spread. In an age of PR-hyped messaging, travellers are more likely to trust assurances from peers and friends, than a multi-media campaign.** Those who continue to stay home will gauge the situation from those who venture out.

In this situation, how destinations, its surroundings, facilities and also various service points appear in variation to its current reputation crisis will be a critical base for the future of travel, at least to kick start. This, irrespective of which segment makes a come back first. How must each segment of the industry take care of this aspect: 1) Destinations: Following up from my first article# on these issues, how ready or prepared destinations are, will be seen in view of how clean or less clean than desired (in a #NewTomorrow where cleanliness and the security one derives) they are.

In times when reputations across the board have been damaged owing to the deadly virus that drove people indoors, the first travellers who visit a place will be very watchful and observant of how destinations have taken pains or

worked hard to ensure optimum and safe-feeling cleanliness. (Obviously any travel decision will be taken only after vigorous pre-checks).

Increased / improved measures adopted to ensure cleanliness, safeguards adopted in terms of say, increased frequencies in cleaning, processes followed etc. will be watched. Strict implementation of guidelines, yet how friendly they are implemented will be watched.

Also important will be key physical distancing measures right from ticket counters (whether tickets will be made available online etc.), and at security check points like if security agents have gloves. Per-

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COLUMN / TRAVEL TRENDS haps newer security systems that altogether avoid the need for an agent in close proximity may even come up or may have to be thought of.

Re-writing carrying capacity policies based on the new situation will be important.

A mess up here, will further damage already battered reputations of destinations.

All the more important for destinations to have been on top of the game by the time they receive the FrontLine of travellers to their attractions.

Airlines/Hotels/Resorts/Home Stays/Coaches: #NewTomorrow will demand fool-proof measures that ensures health safety. Improved food cleanliness measures and waste disposal, as well as sustainable practices that reduce waste and single use material; perhaps promote more use of personal

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Carries close to 100 tonnes of medical supplies including masks and other protective equipment from Shanghai to Mumbai on the Emirates SkyCargo Boeing 777 freighter stuff. This sector will be catering to those with increased sensitivities towards spic ‘n span cleanliness with regard to everything ranging from outward appearances, to even those who may actually lift the mattress or carpets to see if anything really is brushed underneath!

Also, will be interesting to see how physical distancing measures are taken. At restaurants, pools, lobbies and the like for hotels, and at other places like Airports, Rail-

ways.

Airlines like Emirates has already announced measures they’re taking in order to ensure passengers feel safe and confident to travel... both at the airport and on-board.

Delta Airlines has pledged its commitment towards ensuring cleanliness alongside being ontime.

How well these measures get implemented on ground when passengers start arriving at airports will send messages to potential travellers about the preparedness of the industry to receive travellers and ensure their safety.

At Touch points: Even as making the whole system ContactLess, there are yet points at which close interaction with staff are required.

One of the most important people at destinations and hotels/resorts and other places are the FrontLine Staff.

How well they are equipped with helpful, insightful information, and how cohesive their actions are with

the rest of the staff in meeting customer needs in tune and keeping with the new situation will be a critical area of observation. Highly sensitised travellers will feel this more than quality levels and standards. Equally important is the way the FrontLine staff will behave (politely) and respond (assuringly and gently) to repeat questions, requests; how well they are informed of Dos and Don’ts (all in the interest of health-safety). Again following up from my first article, the current time of lockdown must be utilised to update customer interaction SOPs addressing possible safety-related questions.

That is exactly what many hotel chains are up to currently. Far reaching changes to what we have been used to for generations are set to change. From protection shields at front offices and ‘no buffets’, to ‘Contactless experiences’ and training of staff for healthier stays by partnering medical players. Certainly these are just the start, but will play a big role in building traveller confidence. If a traveller knows that the hotel chosen for stay has an arrangement with a medical brand, what more assurance does one need that s/he is in safe hands?

But even before travellers reach here, Call Centres and Online Information Centres are in fact the very first touch points. This is where the first information is enquired, and given. This is where providing true and accurate information as well as gentleness and subtlety, comfort and reassurance is most important.

This is where the decision to travel is taken.

Without taking names, there

have been certain calls in the recent past that seemed like a bit of an oversell. In total contrast, two mails and a call from Evolve Back Resorts stood out for warm, polite and confidence giving tone and content. Marriott International has coined a fantastic name: We Care!

How apt. Yes, the rules and situations are going to be more stringent, but we care.

Thus the well informed FrontLine of travellers post Covid-19 who will come in first, that FrontLine of travellers, must be made to feel a more than adequate sense of security, if they are to spread the (good) word around. That will depend on how well the FrontLine staff in travel respond.

This will help build traveller confidence for the rest to follow. Far more important that a regular cosmetic rehash of SOPs etc. (which are also important), is need to cater to a complete new consumer with changed perceptions, new suspicions and a sense of paranoia for cleanliness that helps them feel safe and confident to travel.

All FrontLine touch points need to equipped well enough to have FrontLine travellers feel confident to tell the rest: “... its absolutely safe to travel...” ** This does not negate the need for promotional campaigns by destinations and services brands.

As much as WoM matters, marketing campaigns remind travellers about destinations and places to stay, things to do and airlines to fly. So campaigns indeed play an important role in building destination awareness, and be part of traveller-preference-lists.

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NEWS / EVENT

THAILAND TOURISM SECTOR PROPOSES TOURISTS SAFETY ACT

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The covid impact taught Thai Tour operators the necessity to think about diversification to avoid paralysis during a crisis.

The tourism sector in Thailand proposes the Tourists Safety Act as a part of survival strategy, to cope with the covid crisis in confidence .The impact of Covid-19 has taught the tourism sector a bitter lesson about depending on a single source. The virus out break leads to a major change in travel behaviour and make the companies to adjust its business plans.

The pandemic set off high lights the Importance about hygiene and safety standards. According to the industry players the act stipulates regulations and guidelines for tourism services and activities such as diving and ziplines, which have caused fatal accidents. The act will help control the quality of the few illegal operators that damage the reputation of Thai tourism.

It’s high time for the Thai tourism industry to have a concrete standard and Tour operators should depend more on domestic travellers .Most Thai tour agents are luring Chinese and the covid impact taught them the necessity to think about diversification to avoid paralysis during a crisis.

Instead of creating a diverse marketing mix Thai Tour operators are normally focus on a specific market in which they already have connections rather and China is the biggest source for Thai tourism with their arrivals as high as 11 million last year, accounting for 28% of the 39.8 million international arrivals.

Since the domestic market, which should return to travel first, will serve the tour operators as an opportunity to practise responsible tourism and the outbreak has taught hoteliers to offer online delivery services to sell food and beverages.

The hospitality business will come up with new ways such as offering more flexible plans relying on technology such as high-definition virtual tours .

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