UNWTO Sets Emergency Priorities in Wake of Air Traffic Disruption

The U.N. World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), noting that millions of people inside and outside Europe have been affected by the current air traffic disruption, is recommending that new procedures be developed to meet the next transportation-related disaster.

The UNTWO said many travelers are stranded and airlines, airports, hotels, travel agencies and tour operators, as well as local tourism authorities and diplomatic representations are facing extreme challenges to provide assistance, and safeguard the rights and wellbeing of travelers.

The members of the Tourism Emergency Response Network (TERN) have been closely monitoring and coordinating the situation during the past few days. At a meeting convened by UNWTO on April 19, TERN recommended that the following principles should be considered as general emergency priorities in situations such as the current one. First, the number one priority remains safety of passengers.

Travelers should be provided, as far as possible, with the required means to ensure their wellbeing, namely clear and precise information, assistance and support whenever possible and in accordance with passengers’ rights. They should also have access to visa facilitation procedures when in transit and unable to leave airports.

TERN called on the respective authorities to provide to the travel and tourism sector all possible regulatory support. It also noted that such an unprecedented situation requires a joint coordinated effort from all stakeholders, governments and the private sector.

TERN also welcomed all proactive measures regarding alternative means of transport, including increases in capacity and the maintenance of reasonable price levels.