Attack in Brussels weighs on airlines, travel sites, hotels
A ripple ran through the travel and lodging industry Tuesday following deadly attacks in Belgium that killed dozens of people at the Brussels airport and in the city’s subway.
American Airlines, Delta and United Airlines canceled or diverted all flights to and from Brussels, where the airport was closed, and some issued statements about the attack.
Security was tightened across Europe, just four months after coordinated attacks in Paris killed 130 people. Air travel and hotel bookings in Paris dipped in the aftermath.
But apprehension about travel, at least Tuesday, was global.
“While the attacks took place in Brussels, it is likely to have an impact on European travel demand in general,” said Raymond James analyst Savanthi Syth, in a note to clients. “The attacks come during peak Easter travel and ahead of peak summer travel.”
Our thoughts are with those affected by today’s tragedy in Brussels. Our #AATeam members have been confirmed safe. https://t.co/Qldy8xya3a
— American Airlines (@AmericanAir) March 22, 2016
Update: @Delta statement on Brussels airport: https://t.co/EJ3i93HgcY
— Delta (@Delta) March 22, 2016
Our employees and crews are safe. Our thoughts are with all the people in Brussels. #Brussels
— United (@united) March 22, 2016
Here’s how stocks of travel companies fared in afternoon trading Tuesday:
AIRLINES:
– American Airlines Group Inc. fell 1.5 percent to $42.81.
– Delta Air Lines Inc. fell 1.8 percent to $49.20.
– United Continental Holdings Inc. fell 1 percent to $60.65.
– Air France KLM SA down 4.1 percent at 8.08 euros, or $9.06.
HOTEL CHAINS:
– Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. fell 1 percent to $22.27.
– Hyatt Hotels Corp. fell 1.8 percent to $48.93.
– Intercontinental Hotels Group PLC fell 3 percent to $39.51.
– Marriott International Inc. fell 2.1 percent to $70.76.
– Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. fell 1.2 percent to $83.20.
TRAVEL WEBSITES AND AGENCIES:
– Expedia Inc. down 1.7 percent to $109.04.
– The Priceline Group Inc. down 2.7 percent to $1,313.98.
– Ctrip.com International Ltd. down 1.6 percent to $44.42.
– TripAdvisor Inc. down 2.2 percent to $64.27.
– Thomas Cook PLC down 6 percent to 87 pence, or $1.24.
This story was originally published March 22, 2016 at 1:17 PM with the headline "Attack in Brussels weighs on airlines, travel sites, hotels."