Most U.S.-based female business travelers reported safety concerns that affected their work trips, according to a new report from the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) in partnership with AIG Travel.
The survey of 503 women found that 83 percent experienced one or more safety-related concerns or incidents in the past year. Nine in ten respondents said safety worries influenced how they used personal time while traveling for business.
Respondents cited several primary concerns: general personal safety (78 percent), sexual harassment and assault (72 percent), travel to specific countries and cities (68 percent), and risks of assault or kidnapping (65 percent).
Titled Perceptions of Safety for Female Business Travelers, the report examines how these safety issues shape business travel behavior and what employers and travel managers are doing to mitigate risks. Safety worries affected booking choices: many women reported preferring daytime flights and selecting centrally located hotels. These concerns also influenced destinations they would accept, the frequency of travel, and their productivity while on the road.
“High levels of concern have a tangible impact on business travel for women,” said Amanda Cecil, senior vice president at GBTA. “Previous GBTA research has shown the significant effect the travel experience can have on productivity and business outcomes. Ultimately, all travelers want to be productive and get business done, so understanding the specific risks female travelers face allows travel buyers to play a vital role in addressing these concerns.”