Travel companies across all sectors joined industry organizations in applauding the end of US inbound Covid testing requirements, saying the rule had been a deterrent to travel.
“We are delighted that our customers can finally travel hassle-free to the 26 destinations we serve in the United States, without having to take costly and onerous tests,” said Sean Doyle, CEO of British Airways.
Ellen Bettridge, CEO of Uniworld, said her US customers have long said “the re-entry testing requirement is the number one thing stopping them from traveling overseas, and we’re delighted that this barrier has been lifted”.
Related: ‘Today is a great day’: Travel industry reacts to lifting of pre-departure and inbound Covid tests
Princess Cruises and sister brand Holland American Line also welcomed the decision.
“This is an exciting development that makes it easier and stress-free for our customers to travel across Europe as well as experience our Alaskan cruises that end in a Canadian port,” said John Padgett, President. from Princess.
His Holland American counterpart agreed.
“This change means U.S. travelers can continue their love of Holland America Line cruises from homeports in Europe, Canada and Australia without fear of being denied entry to return home,” Gus said. Antorcha. “This removes a travel barrier for some customers who naturally wanted to avoid the uncertainty of return testing.”
Destinations at home and abroad also applauded the decision.
“The lifting of the testing requirement for inbound international air travelers is very good news for New York’s travel and tourism industry and will undoubtedly accelerate our continued recovery and that of the United States,” said Fred Dixon, CEO of NYC & Company. “In New York, international travel accounts for 50% of spending in a typical year. In fact, it takes the spending power of four domestic visitors to equal the spending of one international traveler, thus easing the entry process means a stronger and faster recovery.”
Lorine Charles-St. Jules, CEO of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, said the lifting of the test “will absolutely have a positive impact on international tourism, as well as American tourism. This is especially true for travelers who may have being deterred from traveling abroad due to safety concerns. testing on time in a foreign country.”
