COVID-19 Crisis Causes Heavy Losses for the Austrian Tourism
Lockdowns, travel and flight restrictions as well as general COVID-19 related uncertainties have caused major losses in the tourism industry since March 2020. After a slight recovery in summer 2020, tourism activities were banned altogether during the winter season 2020-21. Since the opening of the touristic accommodation facilities in May 2021, demand has been gaining momentum again. However, in view of the significant increase in infections rates, the tightening of official restrictions, and travel warnings against Austria the prospects for the 2021-22 winter season are becoming increasingly gloomy.