BLACKSBURG, Va. (
WFXR
) – There has been an increase in fear of flying following 33 fatal crashes this year, although
experts say airliners are probably the safest way to travel
.
Virginia Tech
Professor Mahmood Khan from the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management
suggests worries regarding air travel may affect summertime vacations.
“People nowadays are contemplating whether they should travel internationally or not, as the future remains uncertain,” he stated.
“A new anxiety is developing now because of the regulations, because of the people who have forgotten the importance of having empathy,” Khan explained. Fewer people he says are willing to perform courtesies like giving up their city so a family can sit together.
However, there will still be an increase in travel for summer vacation, and a rise in flyers is likely to impact travel anxiety in return.
Recently, United Airlines reduced 35 daily flights from their Newark hub due to issues with equipment and air traffic control staff shortages. According to Khan, this decrease in flight frequency could heighten travelers’ concerns.
That could lead to significant competition as many people will likely try to vie for those spots,” explained Khan. “Therefore, securing reservations early on will be crucial.
It might result in increased costs or reduced discounts during the summertime travel period, he mentioned. Conversely, it could steer tourists towards smaller, nearby attractions that are within driving distance.
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