The majority of business travel buyers think airports in Europe should improve their security processes for frequent travellers.
A recent survey of more than 100 buyers by GBTA Europe revealed that 74% are in favour of introducing a trusted traveller programme.
The same survey showed that 78% of buyers would like to see standardised security across all European airports.
The poll also revealed buyers’ opinions on a number of other key issues affecting business travel in Europe, such as the inclusion of aviation in the European Union’s Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) in 2012.
Some 70% of respondents think that aviation’s entry into the EU ETS should be delayed until it includes all airlines globally.
The majority of buyers (85%) also believe that the growing consolidation of airlines – seen most recently with the planned purchase of Bmi by BA-Iberia’s parent company IAG – will ultimately mean an increase in prices.
Some 47%, however, think the mergers will result in better schedules.
The findings of the survey were presented to the European Commission (EC), ahead of the publication of a European Manifesto by the GBTA Europe Advocacy Group.
Hans Ingo Biehl, executive director of the German buyer-led business travel association VDR and chair of the advocacy group, said it was key that the manifesto was based on real opinions.
“We wanted to make sure that we formulated our positions on the basis of the buyers’ real views,” he said.
“As a buyer-led group our goal is to seek to be consulted on issues affecting our members rather than to lobby per se.
“The buyer needs a voice in Europe and our work to date and plans ahead are ensuring that GBTA is that independent voice.”
www.gbta.org/europe