Though the pandemic continues to bite, the news was full of initiatives to restart the business travel sector this week. It seems to be paying off too, as BTN reports that those working for SMEs are already returning to travel, ahead even of larger corporates.
Nonetheless, safety remains both a priority and a concern. Although many people are keen to see a return to normal, especially given so much job insecurity, there is a great deal of apprehension and uncertainty as to whether it’s too soon to do so safely.
Balancing these priorities is a considerable challenge, but it’ll continue to be a fundamental element of our ‘new normal’ too. So in the first of our fortnightly news round-ups, we look at what is happening in serviced accommodation and further afield to get business travel moving again, safely:
Resuming meetings and events
Virtual alternatives have replaced the bulk of in-person events, but are they here to stay?
In a recent study conducted by the Event Leadership Institute, only 15 per cent of respondents said they would be comfortable attending a venue, even at half capacity.
So what could improve confidence and usher the return of physical meetings and events? According to the research, enforceable rules for attendees are paramount alongside the abundant availability of hand sanitiser, and of course, mandatory face masks.
Full Story here.
Finding an alternative to quarantine
Contracting COVID-19 while travelling is still the biggest worry, but a close second is compulsory quarantine on return from countries either suddenly removed from the list of travel corridors, or never on it at all.
It’s a controversial policy, but trials of an alternative are underway that could reduce disruption and ease the way to less restrictive travel. Heathrow Airport is exploring the potential of onsite rapid testing methods to identify whether it can be carried out in non-clinical settings to the same standard.
Full story here.
Improving aircraft cabin disinfection
Enhanced cleaning and hygiene protocols are now essential, but so too is efficiency, especially when it comes to air travel. Boeing is currently testing a solution that strikes a balance between both.
The new hand-held device uses ultraviolet light to quickly, yet effectively, disinfect high-touch areas in the flight deck and cabin. If proved as effective on COVID-19 as it is on other microbes, use of the ‘wand’ could be rolled out across the entire fleet.
Full story here.
Shifting to a zero-contact stay
With travellers and accommodation owners keen to reduce physical contact and minimise touch in communal areas, the use of contactless technology is increasing. From cleaning bots to mobile check-in, innovative solutions are beginning to appear in serviced accommodation.
Full story here.
