NBTA Provides War Resources to Corporate Travel Industry

Alexandria, VA --- In response to the war in Iraq, the National Business Travel Association (NBTA) is offering information and education resources to its members, along with new flexible policies.

NBTA has added many updates to its online Homeland Security Resource since its creation last month. The website provides travel management best practices in times of war, security guidelines for travelers, media talking points, and airline cancellation policy updates. In addition, a new "Support the Troops" area of the site allows visitors various options to support U.S. troops and their families.

In addition to this online resource, NBTA is providing its members with several opportunities to develop more in-depth knowledge of the current issues in travel security. Through its online education product, NetSmart, NBTA will be offering classes on "Handling Medical & Security Evacuations" and "Tightening Your Travel Policy under Heightened Security Levels" presented by travel managers.

In addition, recordings of two earlier sessions on "Emergency Procedures for Corporate Travel Programs" and "Traveler Security and Tracking" are currently available on NBTA's Homeland Security Resource website .

"Our members need information to tackle the challenge of managing corporate travel in a crisis," said NBTA President Kevin Iwamoto. "Through timely and practical resources like this website and our upcoming crisis-related educational programs, NBTA provides a real value to our members and the public."

Acknowledging that the international situation has caused uncertainties that make planning for future events difficult, NBTA has also instituted a no risk cancellation policy for its Certified Corporate Travel Executive elective sessions, coming up this spring. Corporate travel professionals registered for the programs will receive refunds if they must cancel due to restrictions in company travel policies.

"In this time of uncertainty, NBTA understands that its members need flexibility in planning their professional development," said NBTA Executive Director Bill Connors. "Along with our supplier partners who have offered more flexible cancellation policies, we want our members to know that we are here to provide them whatever services they need during these difficult times."

For more information on how the corporate travel industry is affected by the war, please visit .

The National Business Travel Association, established in 1968, represents over 2,400 corporate travel managers and travel service providers. NBTA members manage and direct more than 70% of expenditures within the business travel industry. NBTA is committed to the professional development of its members and offers educational and training opportunities. It is the source for critical information on the business travel industry.