A Letter from NBTA President Suzanne Fletcher
Dear NBTA Member,
Today we remember an event that profoundly impacted our daily lives and the industry in which we all make a living – the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States. Even as we look back five years to that tragic day, remembering the emotions we felt, our hearts still grieving for the victims, we see hope for the travel industry and for the world.
The rebound of the airline industry to levels exceeding those prior to 9/11, record-high hotel occupancy and triumphant return of business travel demonstrate that our industry has weathered the storm. I applaud all travel professionals for your role in this rebound. It is through all of our efforts that we have emerged stronger, better and more prepared for the future of travel around the globe.
When British authorities recently uncovered a terrorist plot targeting U.S.-bound commercial jets, the swift response of security officials reaffirmed the commitment to protecting the air travel system. At the same time, the travel industry ramped up to help travelers. Travel managers worked to help any travelers impacted by delays or cancellations and to keep their companies’ travelers informed about the security changes. Airline personnel helped frustrated passengers at airports and also helped communicate the latest security developments. Hotels and car rental companies stepped up to make sure travelers who could no longer carry liquids would have access to necessary toiletries. And business travelers, who face the toughest challenges as a result of the heightened security posture, seem to have taken the changes in stride. We have come a long way in five years.
As always, NBTA remains committed to providing corporate travel professionals the resources and support to thrive at all times. As we mark five years since 9/11, we particularly reaffirm NBTA’s mission to work with the U.S. government to ensure that the nation’s skies are safe without putting undo burden on the free flow of commerce. We recently contacted Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff to reaffirm NBTA’s support of programs that promote national security without burdening the healthy conduct of business. To read the letter to Secretary Chertoff, please click here.
Things have changed since that fateful day on September 11, 2001. We responded to those changes by adapting to the new world around us. I am confident that no matter what the challenge, travel managers and suppliers will continue to evolve with the industry, further driving value for their companies and protecting the interests, safety and security of business travelers.
Sincerely yours,
Suzanne Fletcher
President & CEO
NBTA