Articles tagged “vaccines”

Today's edition of Skift's daily podcast looks at U.S. vaccine rules, Qantas’ new CEO, and VisitBritain’s AI-assisted campaign.

The Biden Administration announced the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Covid vaccine requirement for inbound international air travelers to the U.S. will end on May 11. The administration will…

In Skift's top stories this week, Hong Kong will reopen to travelers from nine countries in April, the war in Ukraine is delaying world health officials' review of Russia's Sputnik V vaccine, and family trips are expected to make a big rebound this year.

The review process by world health officials of the Russian jabs was postponed by the war, so travelers are requesting to get vaccinated with approved brands. Other destinations with fewer stringent health requirements are managing to seize the moment.

Tour operators are largely supportive of destinations easing travel curbs since most of them already require their own clients to be vaccinated. That doesn't mean they're getting complacent in the fight against Covid as many countries are still struggling with a surge in cases.

In Skift's top stories this week, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby says the airline will beat margin leader Delta Air Lines by improving the passenger experience, Accor executives explain why the hotel giant has struggled to make inroads in the U.S., and American Airlines CEO Doug Parker expresses confidence that business travel will return to pre-pandemic levels.

Although the U.S. travel industry anxiously awaits the return of Chinese visitors, the timing will largely depend on when Beijing decides to ease outbound travel restrictions.

In Skift's top stories this week, D.C.'s Attorney General alleges Marriott made millions through a deceptive practice, United's CEO cautions travelers about flying on airlines without vaccine mandates for staff, and tour operator TUI pitches remote work holidays to companies.

Australia is lowering the drawbridge, reopening for international travel now that vaccination rates in the country are high. And Qantas is taking full advantage, bringing back its largely idled international network weeks, and for some routes, months before it had anticipated.

Approval of a U.S. vaccine for kids would be a huge positive for family travel, but it will take time to get over the uncertainty. Visiting friends and relatives domestically will continue to dominate for a holiday season that’s projected to see higher consumer spending.