The CEO of Delta Air Lines said unless the entire travel industry comes together to communicate a united message about safety and trust, the aviation would take more than a few years before volumes come back to 2019 levels.
Ed Bastian, Delta CEO mentioned that the airline is operating about 50 percent of its domestic timetable and only selling around 60 percent of the seats as a result of deciding to block middle seats through January 6.
“So at the same time that we start getting people to travel again, I think the question goes beyond the broader of our sector of air travel. It’s the travel ecosystem,” Bastian said. “I mean, getting the hospitality sector to join hands and continue to do the safety protocols, the safety message, and the assurance in protecting people through will help us all get out and get more comfortable and begin to travel again.”
Bastian confirmed that Delta Airlines has benefited from this slow period in a way to retire older and less fuel-efficient planes, end operations in unbeneficial markets, and streamline operations. He said that although some changes could be temporary, many will stick when the pandemic comes to an end.
Last month, the United States Tour Operators Association said More than a third (38 percent) of Active Members have seen an increase in bookings in the last 60 days. Another third (38 percent) have seen no change in bookings during this timeframe, with the remaining 24 percent reporting a decrease in bookings.
For sure, Airlines are not the only industry in the travel business to start up making changes to increase traveling or try to give the passengers, some peace and assurance. This goal could not be reached without the help and cooperation of all the sectors involved.