Airlines and hotels enjoyed an escalation in summer travel this year. The AAA predicts 33.4 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more this Labour Day weekend which surpasses the 1995 high of 33.2 million. Hotel chains are pleased that a forecasted decline in occupancy did not transpire and are hoping the trend will finally turn upward. Nevertheless, although leisure travel was up this summer, industry experts are worried business travel will continue to drop this fall.
CNN reports airlines are flying packed planes but readily admits many aircraft are ³sitting idle², most likely because Americans are driving more and flying less. Web conferences have also gained popularity in corporate circles which reduces the need for business travel and hotel bookings. Long line ups, delays, highjack and airport security issues are the main reasons busy executive are seeking alternatives whenever possible.
