US travel industry wants welcoming message
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America’s travel industry has called for better communication to counter negative perceptions of the new 10-finergerscan screening that is being implemented at points of entry into the US.
“We also need a nationally co-ordinated campaign to communicate a two-fold message to our friends overseas: America welcomes you, and enhanced security at US airports makes you and the world safer and more secure,” said Stevan Porter, Discover America Partnership Chairman, who is also InterContinental Hotels Group President.
The Partnership had earlier endorsed the deployment of the 10-fingerscan technology nationwide, saying it streamlines the entry process for international visitors, reduce wait times and lessens the need for secondary screening.
The Partnership also supports the “Travel Promotion Act of 2007” which aims to create a “nationally coordinated programme to communicate U.S. security and visitor entry policies so that international visitors are not deterred by this and other necessary and reasonable security enhancements,” a statement said.
“While reasonable, we must also recognise that the 10-fingerscan technology may be perceived as a barrier to entry,” said Geoff Freeman, Executive Director of the Discover America Partnership.
He said this must and other barriers must be balanced with clear communications and a welcoming message.
The Partnership was formed early last year when leaders in the travel and tourism industry came together amid growing concerns about global attitudes about the US.
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