Mayor Cantrell's travel has cost The City of New Orleans more than $60,000 so far in 2022. Mayor Cantrell is defending using city dollars on first class flights and expensive hotel rooms. Her travel has cost the city more than $60,000 in 2022, according to records. She often flies first and business class while her staff, including security, fly economy. Her ticket to Switzerland to sign a sister cities agreement cost $9,800. She was asked why during a news conference Wednesday. "That was the cost and that's what we spent. Business class in terms of travel is what I do. Particularly in this environment to ensure my safety," Cantrell said. We reached out to the city asking for clarification on why the mayor didn't feel safe flying economy. A spokesperson said, "We do not comment on mayor's safety protocols or procedures."