TULSA, Okla. -- Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group Inc. announced it is reducing staffing levels by approximately 20% because of the travel slowdown resulting from the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. These personnel reductions affect employees at the parent company, Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group, as well as employees at its operating companies, Dollar Rent A Car Systems Inc. and Thrifty Inc.

The reductions are being made in every area of operations -- from management to hourly workers -- both at the Tulsa company headquarters and across the country.

"Obviously, this is a very difficult and painful decision," said Joseph E. Cappy, chairman, CEO and president of Dollar Thrifty Automotive Group. "However, these are actions that must be taken to protect the future of our companies. Prior to September 11, our companies were already feeling the effects of a slowing economy. After the tragedy, we responded immediately by aggressively lowering our fleet size and reducing operating costs where possible. As we continued to evaluate the impact of the changing travel environment on our business, we found it imperative to also reduce our workforce." In addition to providing severance packages, the company has created a database for employment agencies to review the qualifications of the employees laid off, Cappy said.