Month: March 2017

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Business Travel Travel Management

The Overlooked Factor In Efficient Travel Programs

federal employees sharing economy

In February, the GBTA- North Carolina chapter had the pleasure of hosting Scott Gillespie, a true travel management thought leader.  Mr. Gillepsie is the CEO of t-Clara and frequent contributor to Business Travel News. His presentation focused on a question travel managers often find themselves thinking – how do I gauge success with my travel management process?

Identifying the difference in efficient travel programs

Gillespie based his findings from a recent study, sponsored by ARC, American Express Global Business Travel, and his firm, tClara.  Participants were 700 US-based road warriors who answered questions about their company’s travel policy. The questions focused on if their travel management policies emphasized convenience or budget.

Not surprisingly, travelers operating under strict cost-focused travel programs tended to be more dissatisfied. They admitted to nearly 13% less compliance with their travel policies. They also indicated a 15% higher rate of burn-out and were significantly less willing to travel within two years time.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, travelers with companies that had convenience-based travel policies tended to be more productive on the road and had an overall better outlook about their jobs.

What travel managers should also be measuring:

So are these companies specifically prioritizing cost over the wellbeing of their employees? Of course not! Most companies just aren’t measuring employee satisfaction as a KPI. Gillepsie advised that each travel manager obtain an employee turnover report for employees in traveling roles from their HR department. Getting insights on high turnover rate is the first step to see if adjustments to the travel policy to result in higher employee retention. From there, it may make sense to look at other priorities for travel policies than budget.

Read Scott Gillepsie’s article for other key performance indicators and details on the survey.

 

With our 24/7 service, online support and exceptional service delivered by our travel agents, Christopherson helps ease any challenges that occur when your travelers on the road. In addition, your consultative account manager will assist you in making the necessary changes to your travel policy to decrease traveler dissatisfaction and increase productivity!

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Travel Industry Travel News

Laptop Ban Affects Business Travels

additional-security

Business travelers, who utilize flight time to catch up on work and email, will be disrupted by the recent announcement made by the Department of Homeland Security. Dubbed the ‘laptop ban’, large electronic devices will not be allowed as carry-on when flying non-stop to the U.S. from 10 international airports.

What are these 10 international airports?

  • Jordan – Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)
  • Egypt – Cairo International Airport (CAI)
  • Turkey – Ataturk International Airport (IST)
  • Saudi Arabia – King Abdul-Aziz International Airport (JED) & King Khalid International Airport (RUH)
  • Kuwait – Kuwait International Airport (KWI)
  • Morocco – Mohammed V Airport (CMN)
  • Qatar – Hamad International Airport (DOH)
  • United Arab Emirates – Dubai International Airport (DXB) & Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)

What airlines fly non-stop to the U.S.?

  • Royal Jordanian
  • EgyptAir
  • Turkish Airlines
  • Saudi Arabian Airlines
  • Kuwait Airways
  • Royal Air Moroc
  • Qatar Airways
  • Emirates
  • Etihad Airways

Regulations of the new ‘Laptop Ban’

The aviation security enhancements are for all U.S. bound flights from these 10 airports. It  requires that all personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone or smart phone be placed in checked baggage.  Large electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, e-readers, cameras, portable DVD players, and electronic games can no longer be used in-flight. The ban does not effect the flight returning from the U.S. back to these countries.

Increased security was needed, based on intelligence about airlines that fly non-stop from these 10 airports. Top Democrat on the House Intelligence Committee, Rep. Adam Schiff,  said “These steps are both necessary and proportional to the threat. The global aviation system remains a top target and proper security requires that we continually adapt our defenses.”

The nine airlines affected have until early Friday morning to implement necessary changes. If an airline ignores enforcement, security officials will ask the Federal Aviation Administration to revoke the airline’s certificate to fly in the U.S.

Great Britain has followed the U.S. with a similar announcement.  Their ban specifies dimensions of electronics not allowed as carry-on. The U.K. ban focuses on Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Tunisia and Saudi Arabia. Canada may be following with their own electronic ban as well.

No time frame has been given on this change. The DHS has said in “will remain in place until the threat changes”. Additional airports could also be added at any time.

Business travel industry reaction to the ban

While safety is at the forefront of everyone’s mind, this ban comes as a jolt and inconvenience to business travelers. A complete halt in business productivity is one criticism, but additional safety concerns are another.

One possible matter is the increased risk of lithium-ion batteries catching fire in the cargo hold. These fires would be hard to contain early or even reach.

Another criticism is theft or damage to checked items. There is a reason we keep the most expensive and important items close to us while traveling. Most of us have experienced lost or damaged baggage, and even theft. Without your protection, your items are open to anyone. Speaking of which, this regulation will potentially leave confidential company business exposed while valuable information housed on laptops are checked.

Having flown on Emirate’s Airlines and experienced their exceptional in-flight entertainment, I appreciated their prompt and creative response to the ban, with their “Let Us Entertain You” video on Twitter.

Business traveler tips for the laptop ban

Regardless of in-flight entertainment options, the need to mitigate risk will be an inconvenience that travelers need to be prepared for in advance of their departure from the impacted airports.

  • Back up everything and save it to the cloud, just in case of theft or damage.
  • Add everything you need to your phone – movies, games, podcast, email, etc.
  • Bring those ‘back burner’ tasks you never seem to get to normally – whitepapers, recommended books, research, etc.
  • Buy an external keyboard that can be connected to your phone, making typing less of pain and increase productivity.
  • Consider changing flights from a non-stop to one-stop flights.
Categories
Travel News

Delta Increases Same-Day Travel Fees

Delta has increased the same-day travel fees for tickets issued on March 15, 2017 and moving forward. This is an increase from $50 to $75 USD, affecting non-SkyMiles members, general SkyMiles members, and Silver Medallion members.

Diamond, Platinum and Gold Medallion members will continue to have the same-day travel fees waived, but only if they are not on a restricted fare and their requested flight is eligible. All other rules and restrictions related to Same Day Travel  remain unchanged.

What are same day travel fees?

As a business traveler, you’ve probably been in this situation before. Your day of meetings ends early and you change your flight rather than wait. Or impending weather is coming in and you quickly rearrange travel to avoid it. Fortunately, most airlines understand this is a routine part of the frequent traveler lifestyle.

  • Most same-day changes are valid with travel within the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
  • These same-day flight changes can be requested within 24 hours prior to the departure time of the original flight, however it can be limited by the available flights leaving.
  • If you have a flexible fare (usually a refundable ticket), you are eligible for same-day travel.
  • If traveling in a premium cabin fare of comfort class, same-day tickets are available, but only if a seat is available on the alternative flight.
  • Basic Economy fares are not eligible for same-day confirmed travel changes.

Christopherson Business Travel is a travel management company for businesses. Tired of staying on top of industry policies, employee itineraries or hotel attachment? We’ve relieved hundreds of companies from travel management overload. With our proprietary technology and dedicated account managers, your travel program is in good hands. Learn how we do it.

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Business Travel Travel Industry Travel News

Americans May Need Visa To Enter These European Countries

Earlier this month, members of the European Union’s Parliament approved a measure calling for the EU Commission to urge full visa reciprocity. The United States and a few other countries still require citizens of Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Poland and Romania to obtain visas before visiting. If the U.S does not change their policy, visas will soon be required by Americans to enter these countries as well.

Facts about the potential visa reinstatement:

  • This push stems from a two-year warning period to these countries to change their visa policies. The initial warnings went our in April 2014, which expired last year.
  • The other countries warned were Canada, Australia, Brunei and Japan.
  • Australia, Brunei and Japan have since lifted their visa requirements.
  • Canada will lift their requirements by December 2017.
  • These countries asking to change the visa policy were all formerly communist.

Next steps:

  • A two-month deadline has already been established for the EU Commission to act if the U.S. does not change its policies. Though the commissions has said they may not respond until this summer.

What does this mean for business travelers?

  • At this time nothing has changed. We will know more within the next few months.
  • If the U.S. does not change their policy and visa requirements are reintroduced, it would likely be temporary, the EU says.
  • If you travel frequently to Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Poland or Romania, we will keep you posted via the blog.

Christopherson Business Travel is a corporate travel management company, focused on providing superior service for our clients. Whether it be our integrated software, consultative account management, or just helpful tips, your travel success is literally our business. Learn more about how we do it.

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Business Travel Travel Tips

5 Favorite Travel-Friendly Athletic Shoes

I know many business travelers that enjoy working out after they’ve finished a day at the office.  Some enjoy running the streets as a way to explore a new city, while others prefer the convenience of the hotel gym.  Either way, this Virtuoso blog article piqued my interest, because it reviews travel-friendly athletic shoes that pair “packability” with performance.  Here’s what they recommend.

Top athletic shoes for business travelers

1. Hoka One One Hupana

Hoka uses midsoles that are thicker than most other brands. Though the Hoka One One Hupana appears bulky, it’s one of the lightest shoes on this page, and its mesh upper folds to pack flat. It is Virtuoso’s pick for wider feet. $115.

Hoka One One Hupana

2. Nike Metcon 3 DSX

With its flat, stable outsole and firm heel, the Nike’s Metcon 3 DSX is tailored for multisport gym workouts. The knit upper collapses, saving room in travel bags. It also eliminates pressure points by fitting against the top of your feet. $160.

 

Nike Metcon 3 DSX

3. New Balance 1500 v3

The ultralight New Balance 1500 v3 provides maximum compressibility, but with a more responsive cushion. It’s perfect for the outdoor runner, gripping well on gravel and wet surfaces. The wide heel and roomier forefoot offer excellent stability. $110.

New Balance 1500 v3

4. Addidas Terrex Agravic Speed

Though considered a trail runner, the Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed it works well compacts well and provides superb traction and support. Its entire upper is constructed of a sock-like mesh for lightweight, easy traveling. $120.

Addidas Terrex Agravic Speed

5. Salomon’s S-Lab Sense 5 Ultra

Salomon’s S-Lab Sense 5 Ultra is known for being lightweight. Packing down to basically nothing, it is ideal for treadmills and activities that don’t require a lot of stability correction. It also has adjustable elastic cords instead of laces, always giving you the perfect fit. $180.

Salomon’s S-Lab Sense 5 Ultra

What kind of work out do you look for while traveling? Let us know in the comments below.

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Christopherson Business Travel manages travel for other companies. Our advanced technology, consultative account management, and around the clock service, provides time for our clients to focus on their passions. Learn more about our approach.

 

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Guides Travel Industry

Is Your Driver’s License Valid For Air Travel?

The REAL ID Act, originally passed by Congress in 2005, has steadily been updating the identification processes in our nation. Already standardizing protocol in federal buildings, nuclear power plants and other facilities, the act is entering its final stages. The final focus in on passenger identification on commercial airlines, which is secured by the Department of Homeland Security. Depending on which state you live in, your driver’s license may soon not be valid for domestic air travel.

TSA protocols for valid identification will be updating

Surprisingly, many frequent travelers are unaware of the impending identification changes coming to commercial air travel. It has been the responsibility of the individual states to update their driver’s license to be REAL ID compliant. Even with detailed timelines and deadlines given, many states are still in flux.

Read our inforgaphic below to see if your state is compliant to the impending REAL ID Act changes.

real-id-act

Have more questions? Read our blog on the Real ID Act.

Christopherson Business Travel takes the frustration out of travel management for busy companies. Learn how our travel technology and consultative account management does just that by scheduling a demo today.

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Travel Industry Travel News

Delta Partially Returning Complimentary Meals

assists travelers

Delta does it again.  While most airlines are cutting out snacks and even beverages from their service, Delta announced they are reinstating complimentary meals.  Starting with economy class, Delta began offering free meals late last year for a trial period. Testing out ways to improve customer satisfaction, most fliers were surprised to see the once commonplace amenity again.

Beginning in March, they will offer meals on long-haul domestic flights between JFK and Los Angeles and San Francisco. Later this Spring, complimentary meal service will be added to 10 other major domestic markets including: Boston to San Francisco; Los Angeles and Seattle; Washington National to Los Angeles; JFK to San Diego, Seattle, and Portland, Oregon; and Seattle to Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and Raleigh-Durham.

Are in-flight amenities, like complimentary meals returning?

After merges and cutbacks, complimentary meals and even drinks from airlines seemed to be a thing of the past. Now, in an effort to improve customer satisfaction, airlines are returning to these staples. Some have even surpassed the traditional in-flight meal to offer higher value products.

  • United, Delta and American have dramatically improved their airport lounge catering services, offering healthier and fresher options
  • United’s Polaris Class offers locally sourced and seasonal fare
  • Delta’s Intercontinental One Suite also provides a five course meal based on seasonality.
  • JetBlue and American are vying for best in-flight products and service among the legacy carriers.

Delta was the first airline to bring Wi-Fi to domestic flights.  Then in-seat power outlets.  Now meals.  What will be next?  Massage chairs in first class?  Spa services? Massage therapists available after the meal?  One can only dream…

Christopherson Business Travel is a corporate travel management company. With more than 60 years of experience, we provide travel solutions with our custom technology and dedicated account management. Contact us to learn how we do it.

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Business Travel Travel News

4 Parking Tips For The Hartsfield-Jackson Airport

As a frequent business traveler living near Atlanta, Georgia, I typically fly out of the  Hartsfield-Jackson airport. Traveling is always difficult, but the worst part of flying out of Atlanta is the parking. Many times the only option is economy parking at the very back of the lot, resulting in a walk that seems like a mile to the terminal. I even find myself leaving an hour earlier, just to factor in time to drive around the parking decks looking for a parking spot.

The airport is constantly remodeling and planning for future growth. Construction on new parking decks are in the works, starting in fall of 2017. New parking decks will be built from four levels to eight levels. Though the end result will be a significant improvement, this too will cause major congestion until it’s finished. To help out fellow business travelers, I’ve compiled my favorite tips to easily park at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson Airport.

Parking tips for the Hartsfield-Jackson Airport

  • Whenever I park in daily parking, I immediately enter and go to the top floor of the deck. Most of the time your chances of finding a space are much greater as people tend to try and stay on the lower covered floors.
  • I mostly fly Delta, as the majority of people flying out of the ATL do. When getting to the airport, follow the signs to the blue terminal parking. My chances of finding spaces in that terminal are much greater than in the Delta parking decks. Once you enter the airport it’s only a short walk over to the red terminal.
  • Consider offsite parking. It does take a little longer to wait for the shuttle to pick you up, but will eliminate some of the stress. Many of the offsite parking areas allow for call ahead and prepaid spaces that are guaranteed. You pull in, park and get right on the shuttle.

Know any other tips for parking at the Hartsfield-Jackson Airport? Leave them in the comments below or on our Facebook page.

Christopherson Business Travel is an award-winning travel management company. Our proprietary technology solves travel headaches, so your company can get back to the more important things. Contact us to schedule a demo today.