Valley Forum—AreYou Still Traveling?

Since the terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, D.C., the airline industry has suffered greatly, resulting in losses in the billions of dollars and the elimination of tens of thousands of jobs. Given the impact on the national economy of the airline industry’s problems, the San Fernando Valley Business Journal asks: How did the attack affect your business or personal travel plans? Keith Green Executive Vice President, Office Services DAUM Commercial Real Estate Services Woodland Hills I was in New York on Sept. 11 and subsequently was stuck there for five days. We were able to rent a car in Philadelphia and then begin our additional five-day trek across the country. Although in the big picture this was insignificant, it did take 10 productive days away. As for my business, I primarily do local and regional work, so the airline issue is somewhat mitigated by my type of business. In terms of business, I have noticed increased caution displayed by decision-makers. Everyone seems to be afraid to move forward. Jared Kaplan President A Neighborhood Management Group, Inc. Canoga Park The airport is safer now than ever before. I flew last weekend with no problems. The increase in security and less congestion with traffic and people made it a pleasant trip for me. David Walker President New Perspectives Consulting, Inc. Westlake Village I do not travel much outside the L.A. area, but to the extent that I do, I have not changed my travel plans in light of the Sept. 11 attacks. If I am scheduled to be traveling between cities in the Northeastern U.S. and Washington, D.C., I now may consider Amtrak, but that is more a time consideration: all the delays at airports make train travel a bit more competitive. Linda Tabbush President Linli Travel Tarzana I am an advocate of providing tourists attractions and traveling by air isn’t a discouragement. The nature of our business has been volatile since the event. There were many cancellations of business trips and airlines, and postponement of traveling from our customers. By reevaluating the changes, many discounts were offered helping increase the attendance of travelers. I know travelers are faced with fear, but I believe that this is only temporary. The show must go on! Rozan Mardosian Marketing Director Super Shuttle Sun Valley The incident hurt our business, but we are slowly recovering again. I currently have no travel plans but when I do, I will consider traveling by air. As far as safety is concerned, I would rather drive a car or take a train. I believe taking precautions is the best method, for example, traveling to a less populated airport and flying in smaller planes.