As Twitter goes mainstream, more and more companies are jumping on the bandwagon and recognizing how useful it can be.

The use of micro blogging site Twitter is gaining rapid penetration within the travel industry, according to a new study.The travel industry has a very high level of engagement on Twitter.

With airlines like @JetBlue and @southwestair using Twitter regularly to communicate everything from vacation specials to possible flight delays, the impact of Twitter can be felt throughout the Travel Industry.

The study revealed that more than half of users (52%) tweeted between four and 10 times a day, with over a quarter sending more than 10 Twitter updates daily.

The survey of 90 Twitter users who tweet on travel matters was conducted and it was found that the majority of users surveyed had started using Twitter within the last six months.

Of particular interest is the amount of travelling done by the sample (62% travelling internationally three or more times a year) and the fact that more than 60% used Twitter to connect with local suppliers, hoteliers or transport companies before they travelled, with 28.8% reporting that they made a reservation following an initial contact on Twitter.

This suggests that travellers are starting to move beyond merely looking for information on destinations and services, and are actually making buying decisions based on their Twitter conversations.

Twitter has become a communication medium of choice between companies in a variety of industries and their customers.

Source:http://www.travelmole.com/stories/1139246.php