When pandemic conditions started worsening across the country, many businesses canceled their group travel plans altogether. However, it’s clear that in order for businesses and events to carry on, traveling in groups cannot be banned forever.
There’s no doubt that businesses will need to be smarter about the way they travel during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ve put together these group travel resources that removes some of the guesswork from planning while protecting the best interests of your employees and the company.
Designate a Group Leader
As with any group travel, it’s a good idea to designate one leader for the group that will manage itineraries and serve as the point of contact when questions arise. The group leader is held accountable for ensuring group members understand where they’re going, what they’re doing, and when they’re expected to be in specific locations.
Also, if issues arise before or during the trip, such as last-minute cancellations, the group leader will be the one notified of these changes and can use their authority to find a new path forward.
Book Early
There’s a lot of uncertainty and unpredictability in the travel industry right now. Ultimately, it’s the traveler who is benefiting from it in the form of lower prices on hotels, airfare, and transportation.
It’s a good idea to take advantage of these lower costs now if you can build assurances into your trip. When the travel industry does start to bounce back, it’s likely that many travel costs will rise quickly to make up for lost revenue and cater to the growing demand among businesses and consumers.
Establish a Backup Plan
The pandemic has demonstrated the need for a backup plan. When flights were grounded, countries closed their borders, and many hotels and other hospitality businesses canceled their reservations, many businesses had no other choice but to cancel their own travel plans.
Many experts are predicting a second wave of the pandemic in the fall and winter. While no one can see the future, it’s possible that travel plans made for the future may be interrupted due to unforeseen circumstances.
If this is the case, you’ll be glad to have a backup plan in place that will allow you to carry on with your travels. Your plan should include alternative options in every aspect of your trip, including transportation, accommodations, food, meeting spaces, and any other aspect that could impact its outcome.
Consider the Benefits of Private Air Travel
Because of the volatile nature of commercial airline availability and pricing, along with the general crowdedness of the airport, business group travelers may find that a private jet charter offers a viable alternative to conventional air travel.
Private jet charter eliminates the need to venture into crowded airports where your executives may come into contact with the coronavirus or other illnesses. And if they’re meeting with clients, they’ll be able to reduce the potential for passing those germs along the way.
In general, private jets offer a more personalized way to travel. You’re not standing in long security or boarding lines and can go from your car to your airplane seat within minutes. And because the aircraft is reserved only for your group, you aren’t sharing seats or germs with people outside of your normal circle.
Access Jet Group is taking the COVID-19 threat very seriously and has outlined some of the ways we’re committed to keeping our guests safe. Every aircraft is being subjected to additional cleanings, while all staff members have undergone additional training to provide a safe, secure environment for our passengers.
Hand Over the Details to a Personal Concierge
If you’re planning group travel during or after COVID-19, you may find it beneficial to put your trip in the hands of a skilled concierge service provider. Each of our clients at Access Jet Group is assigned a personal concierge that can handle every detail of your trip, from comparing aircraft options to handling accommodations and ground transportation. This takes much of the hands-on work off your plate and allows you to focus on the destination ahead.
Right now, air travel looks and functions a lot differently. Restrictions, rules, and travel availability are ever-evolving, and we’re keeping our finger on the pulse to bring you the latest insights. We’re also monitoring the COVID-19 situation in the areas our clients are flying to and from so you can make an informed decision for your group travel.
