Asata has put out a strong call for a definitive date for the reopening of international travel to ensure the survival of the travel industry.
“We appreciate government’s efforts to implement a risk-adjusted and phased approach to reopening international travel and tourism. However, in order for the industry to survive this difficult time, a definite date for the reopening of international travel is imperative,” says Otto de Vries, Asata ceo, in a press release.
This comes as STA Travel, including its South African operations, announced its global closure on August 24.
Otto says the industry as a whole has made every effort to assist customers to reschedule their travels with little to no compensation since the travel ban was implemented in March and international outbound travel remained closed. Refunds remain a particular challenge.“In many cases, travel agents, as intermediaries between the end customer and supplier, have been unable to recover monies from end suppliers – the airline, hotel, etc. – while they are expected to refund the customer. This has put the travel agent in an unenviable position.”
The association says a definite date for international travel would allow sufficient time for airlines to plan the reintroduction of flight schedules to South Africa. Travel agents and tour operators would be able to start compiling travel packages for the safe return of travellers to international corporate and leisure travel. To that end, the travel industry has contributed to the Tourism Business Council of South Africa’s stringent health and safety protocols.
In the industry recovery scenario, Otto expects to see significant changes – agents may choose to work only with those suppliers that offer assurances in terms of safety and hygiene protocols, plus assurances on flexible booking and cancellation policies. Meanwhile, travellers are expected to rely more than ever on the knowledge, expertise and service of a trusted travel adviser.
“Nothing is more important now for travellers than knowing they can reach out to an expert who can answer their questions with confidence so that they can travel with peace of mind,” he says.