As security restrictions at airports have made traveling by plane more of a hassle in the recent years, have you found it even more difficult to convince your event invitees to attend events that require a flight? If so, you may find relief soon, as air travel is expected to undergo some major changes in 2009.
One change, according to SmarterTravel.com, is new X-ray technology that makes it possible to discern safe liquids from dangerous liquids. When implemented, attendees to your meetings and events will be able to pass through security without facing the dreaded 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons (3-ounce bottle or less by volume; 1 quart-size clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger).
Another change on the horizon is a la carte pricing, as seen by carriers such as Frontier. At the end of 2008, it rolled out a new pricing plan called "AirFairs." The tri-level pricing structure of Economy, Classic, and Classic Plus lets travelers customize their purchase, from a basic seat, no extras, to a full-refundable seat with priority seating and perks like an in-flight snack. American is expected to release a similar flexible fare plan in 2009 as well.
These flexible plans offer the benefit of more affordable flights for your business travelers. Also beneficial to them is the next change on the way: expansion of in-flight Internet service. After introducing Internet service on some flights last year, Delta plans to expand it to every aircraft by the end of the year. Air Canada, Alaska and Southwest are expected to introduce Internet service on some flights as well.
It seems these changes foretell a brighter future for your attendees traveling by air. Do you think they'll make boarding a plane less of a drawback of attending your meeting?
One change, according to SmarterTravel.com, is new X-ray technology that makes it possible to discern safe liquids from dangerous liquids. When implemented, attendees to your meetings and events will be able to pass through security without facing the dreaded 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons (3-ounce bottle or less by volume; 1 quart-size clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger).
Another change on the horizon is a la carte pricing, as seen by carriers such as Frontier. At the end of 2008, it rolled out a new pricing plan called "AirFairs." The tri-level pricing structure of Economy, Classic, and Classic Plus lets travelers customize their purchase, from a basic seat, no extras, to a full-refundable seat with priority seating and perks like an in-flight snack. American is expected to release a similar flexible fare plan in 2009 as well.
These flexible plans offer the benefit of more affordable flights for your business travelers. Also beneficial to them is the next change on the way: expansion of in-flight Internet service. After introducing Internet service on some flights last year, Delta plans to expand it to every aircraft by the end of the year. Air Canada, Alaska and Southwest are expected to introduce Internet service on some flights as well.
It seems these changes foretell a brighter future for your attendees traveling by air. Do you think they'll make boarding a plane less of a drawback of attending your meeting?
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