Help Wanted: How Travel Survives the People Shortage

Summary

When COVID lockdowns receded in early 2021, it was expected that frustrated travelers would return with a vengeance. What was unforeseen, however, was a spike in demand so rapid it would nearly break the travel ecosystem. As it turns out, ramping up a $1.4 trillion industry (as of 2019) from a near standstill is no easy task. Planes were grounded, hotels shuttered, cruise ships docked. But the pains of restarting hit travel’s most important asset the most: its people. More vital than ever before, various tech developments and enhancements may end up saving the day. This article discusses some of the main challenges faced by the air and hotel segments in restarting and revamping their industries, while balancing the conflicting challenges stemming from high demand, skyrocketing prices and an unprecedented shortage of available workers.