It is hard to believe that the travel world, in fact, the entire world, was changed 22 years ago this morning. I had several brick-and-mortar agencies, and that morning went from “Oh probably a small plane, that’s unfortunate” to “OMG” in a matter of 77 minutes. And it only got worse from there. For years!
We had about 130 clients traveling on 9/11, plus a group of CEOs golfing in Scotland who insisted on returning to the US immediately*. We got it done, and it took a team working nearly around the clock. But that is what we do and why we are here for our clients.
But today, it’s important to remember the victims of 9/11 and their loved ones. We should also recognize the perseverance of those in the travel industry who overcame the many challenges that came their way.
Today, we also need to be thankful for all the current safety measures put in place at airports and travel hubs worldwide. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication from airport personnel and security professionals to ensure everyone can feel safe when they fly. And despite the inconvenience, we are much safer traveling today than 22 years ago.
Today, let us all honor those whose lives were changed forever on September 11th and recognize the strength of those in the travel industry who continue to persevere and work to make the travel experience safe and rewarding for our clients. And this morning, take a moment to pause at 8:46 AM EST, 9:03 AM EST, 9:37 AMEST, and 10:03 AM EST to reflect and to remember.
Were you in the industry 22 years ago? Leave a comment and let me know about that day!
*For those wondering how? It was a group of twenty executives on a golf trip with a virtually unlimited budget. Understandably, they wanted to return to their families, but with US airspace shutting down, it was thought impossible. We were able to charter a private flight from Glasgow to Oshawa Executive Airport outside of Toronto. Then a private motorcoach was chartered in Toronto to take them all back (by land) directly to their homes in Delaware and Maryland. And this is one example I use when questioned on the value of a travel professional!
