Travel trade non-profit the U.S. Travel Association has hired government consulting firm Eris Group to advocate on Capitol Hill on behalf of issues affecting the travel and tourism industry.
According to lobbying registration documents filed in June, USTA has retained Eris Group in support of U.S. Open Skies policies, the bilateral agreements that establish a free-market environment for the airline industry, allowing international passenger and cargo flights to move between the U.S. and foreign nations without government interference.
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The United States currently maintains Open Skies agreements with about 115 countries.
The travel industry’s top trade association, the USTA — formerly known as the Travel Industry Association of America — represents the destinations, service providers and travel groups that comprise the U.S.’s $2.1 trillion travel, hospitality and tourism industry.
The USTA account will be led by Chris McCannell, an APCO and Ameriprise alum who was previously chief of staff to former Brooklyn/Staten Island Congressman Mike McMahon (D-NY) and Democratic Rep. Joseph Crowley (D-NY), as well as a press secretary to Democratic whip Steny Hoyer (D-MD) and Rep. Paul Kanjorkski (D-PA).
Eris Group, formerly known as Bartlett & Bendall, counts Western Union, Nike, PayPal, TransUnion and PCI as clients.
Brett Horton, who was chief of staff to House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, has joined the American Hotel & Lodging Assn. as its chief advocacy officer, a new position.
Daimler Truck North American Dealer Council has hired Crossroads Strategies for representation on tariff issues.
BGR Government Affairs has picked up Denmark’s Orsted for strategic counsel and advocacy on issues regarding off-shore wind development.
Tesla has hired Trump-connected Continental Strategy for DC representation.
Ballard Partners has landed Breitling, the Swiss luxury watchmaker, for guidance related to trade and tariffs.
