As per a communication issued on behalf of PATA, there are discussions going on today within the German government and the City of Berlin to make a final decision on whether ITB will go ahead or not. Messe Berlin are expecting to provide a more detailed update this evening (28 February).
“The safety and wellbeing of all event delegates and partners is of paramount importance to PATA, and we will continue to monitor developments and advice relating to coronavirus (COVID-19). We are in constant dialogue with relevant bodies and host venues and continue to gather information from official sources including the World Health Organisation, the UNWTO and the UK government,” read the communication.
Some economists say the epidemic could be the biggest drag on global economic growth since the financial crisis, with airlines alone expected to lose some $29 billion in revenues this year.
“Based on that guidance, we can confirm that there are currently no plans to alter or cancel any of our planned events at ITB. Should this situation change in any way, we will communicate developments immediately to all parties, the communication added.