HIGH SPEED RAIL vs AIRPORT EXPANSION

A majority of UK business travellers favour investment in high speed rail over the expansion of airports; resullts of a new study shows. A poll of 1,240 corporate travellers found that 70% feel a high speed rail network should be the priority for government investment over expansion of capacity at UK airports. The survey also revealed that a move from Air to Rail travel would be chosen by the Corporate traveller if a high speed train were introduced.

NEW BA CABIN CREW STRIKE BALLOT PLANNED

A renewed strike ballot by cabin crew union members working for British Airways is planned for next week. The date of January 22 has been pencilled in and the Unite union must give the airline a week’s notice.

BUSINESS TRAVEL MANAGEMENT IS A COMMODITY

Corporate travel should be at the forefront of companies budgets. The current economy should be used as a house-keeping exercise in ensuring that you are getting the most from your Travel Management Company (TMC). Business travel across the board should be seen as a commodity and as such should be dealt with protocols to ensure your companies long term survival with optimised results from your business travel agent. Whether you intend to procure business or economy class travel, companies should ensure their providers become partner suppliers, and in doing so will result in a better understanding of your company culture for better long term results.

INCREASED SECURITY

Due to security breaches over the festive season, measures have been increased at all airports. We would advise all travellers to leave ample time prior to making their journey to avoid disruption.

EUROSTAR

Ebbsfleet International will have no lift access to the platforms at the station from 01 October 2009 for a period of 5 months - Passengers will still be able to board at Ebbsfleet, however wheelchair users will need to go to St Pancras or Ashford stations.

BA & IBERIA MERGER AGREED

The merger set to be completed by late 2010, will result in creating the world's third largest airline by revenue. BA business travellers will gain access to up to 59 new destinations, of which 13 will be in Latin America, while Iberia’s will gain up to 98 new destinations across BA's network. Business travellers will also be offered better frequencies and connections, more competitive prices, access to more VIP lounges and enhanced frequent flyer benefits, according to the merger statement.