An arrivals and departure board is seen behind blown out windows at Zaventem Airport in Brussels on Wednesday, March 23, 2016. Associated Press

What are the prospects for vacation travel to Europe this summer?

Although some Americans are cancelling their travel plans to Europe in the wake of the terrorist attacks and a about the terrorist attacks in Brussels, BCD Travel stated that the tragedy highlights how risk management needs to change so that companies are prepared to react around the clock, and travelers need to do a better job of keeping their companies informed about their whereabouts.

“Journeys that we once labeled as low risk, such as a business trip to Brussels or Paris, now must be considered higher risk,” said Martin Weisskirchen, vice president of BCD Travel Global Crisis Management, according to the blog.

BCD states: “It’s still essential for companies to identify, assess and mitigate risk before employees travel. But now reaction time is as important as planning. Corporate travel programs have to be ready to make decisions quickly; communicate with travelers and executives; and act as a situation unfolds.”

Airlines For America

Airlines for America, the airline trade group, didn’t comment directly on the State Department travel alert, which expires June 20 but stated that it works closely with government agencies on security.

“A4A and our members hold the safety and security of its customers and employees as our highest priorities. We continually coordinate with government agencies on issues involving safety and security. I would note that a number of U.S. airlines announced policies, including refunds and the ability to rebook without penalty, to accommodate passengers traveling to Brussels. Customers should contact their carrier for more information on their individual polices.”

Several entities, including the Global Business Travel Association and eDreams Odigeo in Spain, declined to comment on the U.S. travel alert for Europe.

Source: skift.com