The travel industry has been hit hard: large areas in China and Italy are being quarantined, seasonal events and festival celebrations are being cancelled. China’s air traffic has been cut by 70% and hotel bookings are dropping by 90% in certain areas in Asia. IATA’s economics team estimates that Asia’s airlines will lose $28 billion in 2020 and the travel industry expects this disruption to cost $46.6 billion each month.

Fewer flights translates into fewer bookings for transfer services. However, Welcome Pickups  is still showing healthy and steady performance due to its prompt implementation of effective measures in response to the latest outbreak developments. 

In comparison to other in-destination modes of transportation such as bus, metro, or taxi, private transfers remain the safest and most reliable transport option from an airport or other hub towards the final point of a traveller’s journey. Welcome Pickups has set their travellers’ safety as a top priority during this time, by taking extra initiatives towards their on-going goal in offering a frictionless, stress-free and personalised transfer

Welcome Pickups drivers in all 53 operating destinations have been directed to follow the steps below, according to the key World Health Organisation (WHO) Guidelines:

• To have hand sanitisers available in the car, both for themselves and for travellers.
• To wash their hands often with soap and water.
• To regularly wipe down surfaces in the car with a household cleaning spray or wipe.
• To stay informed about potential incidents in their country and inform Travellers about the latest developments and areas to avoid, if any.
• If they show any symptoms, to stop working immediately in order to protect Travellers.

They have also rapidly adapted their booking modification and cancellations policies, as they understand that travel plans might have to change unexpectedly, based on the latest developments. 

Together with their partners, which include over +1000 hotels, +3700 vacation rental properties and online travel agents, they are taking measures to keep providing travellers with the highest level of service during the coronavirus outbreak. By adapting rapidly and taking every actionable measure they ensure they maintain an undisrupted airport transfer service. 

Alex Trimis, the CEO of Welcome Pickups has quoted: “At Welcome we are taking the stress out of the travel experience. Currently this means offering the safest way to get you to your next destination”