How Trump’s Administration Could Reshape Travel

President Donald Trump’s sweeping policy changes could significantly affect both domestic and international tourism, with potential impacts on immigration, tariffs, air travel safety, and the hospitality sector.

Following President Donald Trump’s spate of executive orders and extensive federal adjustments in the early phase of his second term, the US travel industry is bracing for likely significant impacts. These new policies could complicate travel within and to the US, potentially making it less appealing.

Tariff threats against allies, an immigration system overhaul, and mass deportations are among the changes expected to have far-reaching implications. Particularly concerning is the potential impact on US tourism, which may experience significant challenges due to these new policies. As the world re-emerges into full travel mode, some fear these changes could be seen as a deterrent to international visitors.

The potential impact is already visible in Canada. Following tariff threats and even President Trump’s proposal of annexation, some Canadians have begun boycotting US travel. The US Travel Association has warned that a 10% reduction in Canadian visits could result in over $2bn in lost spending and 14,000 job losses.

The aviation industry, a crucial component of the travel sector, is also under scrutiny. Recent fatal plane crashes in the US have led to a drop in confidence in air travel safety, and the administration’s recent firing of hundreds of Federal Aviation Administration employees has sparked further concerns. The suspension of passport processing for non-binary Americans could also affect international travel, and increased screening times are expected due to layoffs in the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

On the ground, anticipated tariffs on Canadian oil could increase gas prices, potentially affecting road travel. Moreover, freezing the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program and staffing cuts in national parks may also impact travel plans. As for rail travel, federal funding cuts are expected to affect public rail services and safety programs.

The hospitality industry, which employs over 10% of the American workforce, is also expected to be hit hard. Policy uncertainty can disrupt business, especially for international business travelers. The proposed immigration crackdown could lead to rising costs and declining service in the hospitality industry, particularly in major travel hubs like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles.

Visas are another area facing potential disruption. Enhanced vetting for visa applicants could lead to significant delays, and travel bans similar to those enacted in 2017 are possible. As the US enters a “mega decade” of sporting events, slow visa processing times could potentially lead to billions in lost tourism revenue.

In conclusion, while the full extent of Trump’s policy changes on the travel industry is yet to be seen, experts warn of potentially far-reaching consequences. As the world opens up to travel again, these policy shifts could make the US a less appealing destination for both domestic and international tourists.

Discover more at BBC.