From a travel agents perspective this is really bad for Mexico. Even if the swine flu outbreak is contained (and I pray that it will be) the tourism industry in Mexico will suffer even more than it already has due to concern over the drug war violence. The resort towns and tourist attractions were already relatively safe and Mexico was trying hard to get that word out. I have seen a flurry of e-mails in my inbox from travel vendors as they respond to the situation. Here is a sampling of articles from the media on the travel situation in Mexico:
Gov't advises against unnecessary travel to MexicoSwine flu's impact on travel, hotels: Minimal today, but growingCruise lines: No plans to cancel calls in Mexico due to swine fluThis is a list of cancellation policies issued by the airlines:
CANCELLATION POLICIES
The swine flu outbreak is causing airlines to waive cancellation penalties on non-refundable tickets of fliers headed to, or from, Mexico.
AirTran
Through May 4, fliers may change flight dates or destination without penalty, or receive a credit that can be applied to a future flight.
Alaska
For tickets to Mexico through May 20, a change in flight dates or destination ispermitted without penalty. Or fliers may receive a credit that can be applied to afuture flight.
American
For tickets bought through April 24, a change in flight dates or destination is permittedwithout penalty. Or fliers may receive a credit that can be applied to a futureflight.
Continental
Through May 6, fliers may change flight dates or destination without penalty, orreceive a credit that can be applied to a future flight.
Delta
Through May 4, fliers may change dates or destination without penalty, or get a credit that can be applied to a future flight. If changing dates or destination, the ticket must be re-issued before May 13, and travel must begin before that date.
JetBlue
Through May 8, fliers may change dates or destination without penalty, or receivea credit that can be applied to a future flight.
United
Through May 6, fliers may change flight dates or destination without penalty, orreceive a credit that can be applied to a future flight.
US Airways
Through May 8, fliers may change travel dates up to 14 days before or after originaldeparture without penalty. Or they may apply value of unused ticket to a ticket to another destination; must depart within 7 days of original departure.
Source: Information gathered by USA TODAY from airlines
