Time for a change

The word 'unprecedented' has been used time and again to describe the coronavirus pandemic simply because there is no better synonym. The modern world, let alone the travel industry, has seen little of its kind or scope before. It has brought economic turmoil and travel restrictions that few would ever have imagined possible. The nature of our industry means the pandemic and its fallout has deeply affected every one of our lives, both on a personal and business level.

Flybe was an early victim of the pandemic and we were deeply disappointed for our good friends and acquaintances at the airline, as well as those passengers for whom it provided a vital service. Most airlines around the world are now in need of some form of financial relief. Meanwhile hotels, event venues and conference centres sit empty. And after the initial scramble to cancel trips and repatriate travellers, travel management companies are now bereft of bookings.

Some of these developments are covered in our ‘State of the industry’ feature on pages 10-12, where the ways in which TMCS charge for their services – and the potential for that to change – is discussed. And you won't be surprised to see the impact of coronavirus creep into news stories, articles and features across this issue – even in our extended feature on rail travel (p47-60), a sector where the government has stepped in to support train operating companies during the crisis.

Because some of us in the travel industry might have more time right now, yet not necessarily by choice, let's use it to make positive changes across every area of our businesses so we're ready when travel gets going again.

Until then, stay safe and stay well.