My heart stopped, says NY tourism chief

The latest tragedy to hit New York was today described as a "huge blow" by the city's tourism boss.

Cristyne Nicholas, president of the city's tourism bureau, in London on a promotional visit, said: "Your heart stops, your stomach sinks when you hear there's a plane crash in New York."

Ms Nicholas was told of the plane crash while she was visiting the World Travel Market in London in a bid to bolster spirits following a worldwide slump in business in the wake of the terrorist attacks two months ago.

The exhibition, which attracted thousands of representatives from across the world, had started with an upbeat atmosphere, as tourism leaders insisted they would fight against the threat of terrorist attacks. But by the end of a long day, the atmosphere was one of disbelief and despondency.

Ms Nicholas said: "I was in a press conference when people from my office found out what had happened. I could tell straight away from their faces that something was wrong.

"We're all obviously very concerned. There are people here from New York who straight away went off to telephone their family and friends."

She said: "We feel that New York City has already been through so much and is under attack. Whether it is a terrorist attack or an accident, it's still a tragedy."

While Ms Nicholas and her colleagues representing the city at the exhibition in Earl's Court were visibly shaken at the news of the crash, they insisted New Yorkers would rise to the occasion and continue to help the city back on its feet.

She said: "It's too early to say how much of an impact it will have, but it is a huge blow. It's not good timing because we were just starting to turn a corner and our bookings in the city were up to about nearly 80 per cent from around 35 per cent. On 10 September they were at 90 per cent."

Mark Wilson, head of international marketing for tourism in New York State, said it was difficult to assess the full impact on tourism until the cause of the crash had been confirmed.

He said: "If it was an accident, as it seems to be at the moment, then it will obviously be easier.

"Everyone understands that accidents can occur."