A global survey of business travelers found that they prefer to book online, but want to have access to travel agents 24/7 when they are on the road and need assistance with current travel plans or changes to itineraries. American Express Business Travel conducted the survey in conjunction with its launch of “universal aXcess,” a service option that provides global corporations with a consolidated service platform providing online tools, travel agent support and on-the-go tools for itinerary management and emergency services.

Key points from the survey include:

• Fifty-five percent of business travelers prefer to book their travel online.

• Forty-six percent said they are more likely to turn to a travel agent than to an online site for help when plans change on the road.

• Eighty-one percent of business travelers said it doesn’t matter where their travel agent is located.

• Fifty-three percent said help from an experienced and knowledgeable travel agent is the most important service they can receive. Fifty-one percent put a travel agent with access to the most advanced technology at the top of the list.