The current pandemic and unprecedented difficult times have so far dramatically impacted our lifestyle, be it how we work, travel, socialize, meet and greet, connect, etc and it is only fair to assume that these forceful effects will remodel our behavior and attitude in the midterm and potentially forever.
With all the uncertainty that remains around the duration and outcome of this pandemic, one can confidently assume that there is a shift in consumer mindset, attitude and behavior which we need to learn, understand and consider in any future predictions especially as it relates to the recovery of the travel and hospitality industry.
This presentation summarises the findings of the “HVS Traveller and Hotel Guest Sentiment Survey”. The goal of the survey was to understand current confidence levels, changes in behaviour and preferences, and most importantly the decision making when selecting destinations and hotel stays in the near term. We raise key concerns and questions that are worth reflecting on to address the complex “new normal” that will govern future investments and operations in our industry.
Albeit this survey is by no means an extensive exercise, the findings confirm that the traditional assumptions and rational underlying previous recoveries are challenged and therefore, we strongly encourage airlines, tourism bodies, owners and brand managers to engage in further evaluation of future behaviours and preferences of traveller and guests, which will be key to future forecasting and recovery scenarios.
The survey sample size is 333 respondents and it was carried out between 18-24 April 2020 .
Question 1: How soon will the commercial flights resume from and to the GCC region?
Source: HVS Traveller and Hotel Guest Sentiment Survey
Approximately 90% of respondents consider that commercial travel will resume in the next one to six months, which shows an overwhelming consensus that the aviation industry will take a considerable amount of time to resume normal operations.
This further highlights the uncertainty-driven feeling amongst the respondents and therefore it will take time for the aviation industry to re-adapt to the change in travel behavior.
Read the full report here