WASHINGTON & LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) applauds the United States Customs and Border Protection Commissioner and the United Kingdom Border Force for their announcement to expand the Global Entry system to U.K. citizens. It complements the ability for U.S. citizens to now apply for the U.K.’s trusted traveler program, Registered Traveller.
For nearly a century, Hilton has advocated for its founder Conrad Hilton’s goal of “world peace through international trade and travel” based on the belief that travel leads to greater cross-cultural understanding and prosperity. Travel and tourism now contributes more than 9% of global GDP, with international travel set to nearly double to more than 2 billion people over the next two decades*.
Christopher J. Nassetta, president and chief executive officer of Hilton Worldwide, said, “In a highly competitive global marketplace, we applaud efforts by the U.S. and U.K. governments to improve the travel experience between these two world-class destinations, which will benefit a significant number of our guests.
“Today, technology is changing the way we travel and smart visa programs like Global Entry and Registered Traveller significantly expedite the customs process, while maintaining border security. Those governments who develop smart visa programs will benefit most from what is a huge economic opportunity.”
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner (CBP) R. Gil Kerlikowske announced the expansion of Global Entry to U.K. citizens today at the World Travel Market in London. Global Entry, a CBP Trusted Traveler Program, allows for expedited clearance of pre-approved, low-risk travelers. U.K. citizens can register for Global Entry beginning December 3.
U.S. citizens are eligible to apply for the U.K.’s trusted traveler program, Registered Traveller. Members enrolled in Registered Traveller may use E-gates at airports in the U.K.
Hilton Worldwide is a strong supporter of smart tourist visa policies that facilitate travel opportunities and has recently given its support for enhancements to programs in the European Union, the U.K. and the U.S.
The company also calls on the U.S. government to approve a similar agreement with Taiwan to expand the benefits of Global Entry to more cross-border travellers.
*Source: UNWTO World Tourism Barometer
About Hilton Worldwide
Hilton Worldwide (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxury and full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and focused-service hotels. For 96 years, Hilton Worldwide has been dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences. The company's portfolio of twelve world-class global brands is comprised of more than 4,500 managed, franchised, owned and leased hotels and timeshare properties, with more than 745,000 rooms in 97 countries and territories, including Hilton Hotels & Resorts, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, Conrad Hotels & Resorts, Canopy by Hilton, Curio – A Collection by Hilton, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites by Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton by Hilton, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Home2 Suites by Hilton and Hilton Grand Vacations. The company also manages an award-winning customer loyalty program, Hilton HHonors®. Hilton HHonors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to benefits including free standard Wi-Fi, as well as digital amenities that are available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton HHonors app, where HHonors members can check-in, choose their room, and access their room using a Digital Key. Visit news.hiltonworldwide.com for more information and connect with Hilton Worldwide at facebook.com/hiltonworldwide, twitter.com/hiltonworldwide, youtube.com/hiltonworldwide, flickr.com/hiltonworldwide, and linkedin.com/company/hilton-worldwide.
