Operators and agents expect US sales to rise thanks to the axing of Covid-19 vaccination requirements for non-American arrivals from May 12.
Guy Novik, founder of trade-only specialist USAirtours, saw a “mini spike” in enquiries, which rose 10% after the news broke on Monday.
“That spike will continue as agents share the news with customers. People who’ve been asking for quotes will convert,” he said. “With family-focused destinations such as Florida, Covid rules around children made people cautious. This move will unlock a pipeline of enquiries.”
Kelly Cookes, Advantage Travel Partnership chief commercial officer, said: “We are expecting members to see an upturn in sales as a result.
“Despite the restriction, the US has consistently been a top performer this year, with Florida, New York and California selling particularly well.
“The removal of this complexity is welcome and is another step in building consumer confidence.”
Niel Alobaidi, Newmarket Holidays chief executive, added: “We celebrate simplification of entry rules for any country. The US has traditionally been a popular wish-list destination for our escorted tour customers and it bounced back strongly post-pandemic.
“Reducing entry requirements will enhance that even further.”
Harry Hastings, co-chief executive and co-founder of Ocean Florida, said: “We’ve witnessed 20% of our cancellations since borders opened attributed to members of the travelling party being unvaccinated.
“The continued vaccination requirement has led to widespread confusion, with 10% of our bookings being terminated at the final confirmation stage due to a lack of clarity of the entry restrictions.”
A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said: “It will give a boost to transatlantic customer demand as a busy summer approaches.”
Nick Talbot, head of marketing at American Affair and Canadian Affair, said: “We’re pleased to hear that the US’s Covid vaccination requirements are being lifted and that more people will now be able to experience this diverse and spectacular country.”
Michelle Daniels, UK and Europe commercial director at Light Blue Travel, the general sales agent for American Queen Voyages, said: “This latest announcement removes any barriers for international guests wanting to cruise with American Queen Voyages, which certainly relaxes the whole booking process for us.
“We expect to see a few more bookings and enquiries as a result of the last obstacle to US travel being removed.
“Some people, who may have had to put their US holiday plans on hold for three years, can now go ahead and book.”
Suzanne Neufang, chief executive at the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), commented: “This latest development will serve as a strong driver in encouraging and facilitating international air travel. It will help further pave the way for business travel and its critical role in supporting and growing economies, companies, and teams around the world.
“It will also help free up critical time and resources, such as global staff and operations of airlines and airports, contributing to an improved passenger experience.”