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Travel Industry Reacts to Biden Gaffe on Air Travel
Published on: May 1, 2009
The U.S. Travel Association and the Air Transport Association responded swiftly to Vice President Joe Biden’s remark during an NBC Today Show interview that he would tell his family not to go anywhere in confined spaces -- including aircraft -- because of the swine flu. “One person sneezes, it goes all the way through the aircraft,” he said, adding, “That would be me.”
James May, president and CEO of the Air Transport Association, released a letter addressed to Biden and copying Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood expressing his “extreme disappointment” over Biden’s suggestion that travelers should avoid airlines because of the swine flu. He said airlines have been working closely with government agencies on a daily basis to make sure they are taking appropriate measures to insure the health of travelers and airline employees. While individuals who are feeling ill should remain home, no responsible officials or health care professionals have suggested that people should avoid air travel,” he said. “The fact is that the air on board a commercial aircraft is cleaner than in most public buildings.”
Roger Dow, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, also released a statement. "Americans should heed the advice of medical experts when determining how best to manage health concerns during the ongoing swine flu outbreak. According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and countless other experts, swine flu should not discourage people from traveling to or within the United States.” Dow said. “Elected officials must strike a delicate balance of accurately and adequately informing citizens of health concerns without unduly discouraging travel and other important economic activity. According to President Obama, swine flu is a cause for concern, but not panic. President Obama's measured and responsible comments are appropriate and should provide useful guidance to other elected officials.”
Earlier in the day, the White House put out what it called a “clarifying” statement on behalf of Biden. “On the Today Show this morning, the vice president was asked what he would tell a family member who was considering air travel to Mexico this week,” the statement said. “The advice he is giving family members is the same advice the administration is giving to all Americans: that they should avoid unnecessary air travel to and from Mexico. If they are sick, they should avoid airplanes and other confined public spaces, such as subways. This is the advice the vice president has given family members who are traveling by commercial airline this week. As the president said just last night, every American should take the same steps you would take to prevent any other flu: Keep your hands washed; cover your mouth when you cough; stay home from work if you're sick and keep your children home from school if they're sick.” For more information, visit www.ustravel.org or www.airlines.org.
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