TIA: Obama's Choice for Secretary of Commerce Will Boost Travel Economy

With each new Cabinet member announcement that President-elect Obama makes, the nation hopes and waits eagerly for a change in the current environment. From the auto-makers to the regional airliners, the travel industry, in particular, has been hit hard the past few months.

As Cheapflights.com reported earlier, recent data shows a sharp drop in airline tickets and more airlines are putting routes and seats on sale for the New Year. Thanks to Obama's nomination of Gov. Bill Richardson to Secretary of Commerce, the Travel Industry Association (TIA) predicts the travel industry will see a fast turnaround in 2009. Now, more than ever, is the best time to book cheap airline tickets.

In a statement released from the TIA (www.tia.org) on Dec. 3, Roger Dow, president and CEO of the TIA, said:

"America’s travel community is pleased that a leader of Governor Richardson’s caliber has been selected to head a cabinet department that is positioned to play such a critical role in revitalizing the U.S. economy. We look forward to working with Governor Richardson in support of a nationally coordinated travel promotion program to boost America’s economy and strengthen our image abroad by welcoming more overseas travelers to the United States."

The TIA contends that the travel economy employs one out of every eight U.S. workers in domestic jobs that cannot be filled by outsourcing. Richardson has been lauded with bringing additional jobs and increasing the economic status of New Mexico during his tenure as governor.

"Governor Richardson understands that travel and tourism is an economic engine for America’s state and local economies and is a significant source for jobs. We are optimistic that, as Secretary of Commerce, Governor Richardson will demonstrate the same active support for travel promotion he exemplified as Governor of New Mexico," said Dow.

The Travel Industry Association is the national, non-profit organization representing the travel industry. TIA’s mission is to promote and facilitate increased travel to and within the United States.

© Cheapflights Ltd Melanie Nayer