Author: Shawon Hannan

Gatwick Airport faced operational interruptions following a British Airways incident. The airport swiftly managed the situation and minimised impact.The closure affected numerous flights and required coordinated efforts between the airport and airlines to restore normalcy.On June 28, 2024, Gatwick Airport experienced a temporary disruption due to a British Airways aircraft aborting take-off because of ‘hot brakes’. The occurrence led to the main runway being closed for approximately 50 minutes. During this time, 16 inbound flights were diverted. The airport’s dedicated fire service promptly responded, ensuring safety measures were in place.The incident prompted the cancellation of 23 flights and caused several…

Ambassador Cruise Line has announced the winners of an exclusive fjord cruise trip to Norway this autumn. This initiative aims to enhance collaboration with travel agents, providing firsthand experience of the cruise offerings.The seven-night journey commencing from Tilbury on September 26 is part of a wider strategy to engage travel agents, offering them a personal glimpse into some of Norway’s most picturesque landscapes, including Bergen and Flam. This is expected to foster deeper connections and boost Ambassador’s reach within the travel community.Ambassador Cruise Line’s Autumn AdventureIn a notable announcement, Ambassador Cruise Line has disclosed the names of the eight fortunate…

AmaWaterways has proactively opened bookings for its 2026 river cruises due to substantial interest in its 2024 and 2025 schedules. Customers can now reserve itineraries in diverse locations such as Europe, Egypt, Asia, Colombia, and Africa, along with optional land packages to enrich their journey.Expanding its fleet, AmaWaterways will introduce new ships and itineraries designed to offer comprehensive cultural experiences. This early booking initiative highlights the company’s commitment to delivering unmatched travel opportunities and maintaining customer satisfaction.AmaWaterways Unveils 2026 Cruise CollectionAmaWaterways has announced the early opening of sales for its 2026 river cruise itineraries, citing “strong demand” for its 2024…

Carnival Cruise Line has strategically enhanced its agent incentive scheme, now featuring family cabin bookings. As part of its Loyalty Rocks Club, the initiative offers unique rewards for travel agents.Through July, agents will earn substantial points for each family cabin booking. This move reflects Carnival’s commitment to providing exceptional experiences both on and off the ship, benefiting agents and guests alike.The Loyalty Rocks Club is introducing a refreshed incentive initiative that lists family cabins as part of its attractive offerings. Agents stand to gain 20 points for every family cabin reservation recorded throughout July. This revised structure not only incentivises…

The city of Amsterdam has embarked on a pivotal decision to relocate its cruise terminal out of the city centre by 2035. This move aims to address the challenges of over-tourism and environmental concerns impacting the urban landscape.Rationale Behind the RelocationIn response to increasing concerns over tourism and its environmental repercussions, Amsterdam’s city council has decided to shift the cruise terminal from its central location by 2035. This strategic decision aims to alleviate the nuisance and environmental stress caused by large cruise ships, which currently contribute significantly to the city’s emissions and overcrowding.Alderman Hester van Buren emphasized the city’s vision…

A new survey casts doubt on aviation’s claim as an economic catalyst, revealing widespread public scepticism.Conducted across six major European markets, it shows many believe economic progress does not depend on increased air travel.Public Sentiment on Aviation’s Economic ImpactA comprehensive pan-European survey reveals a prevailing scepticism among Europeans regarding the aviation industry’s assertion that increased air travel is a driver for economic growth. The survey, which encompassed over 12,000 adults across six significant aviation markets including the UK, illustrated that a substantial 59% of recent flyers and 68% of non-flyers believe economic growth is achievable without an increase in air…

Despite soaring temperatures and the ongoing UEFA Euro 2024, the travel industry remains robust. Agents report stable bookings with firm prices, reinforcing the sector’s resilience.Traditionally, events like the Euros and warm weather might have slowed demand, but this year sees a different trend. Agents continue to experience strong business as summer progresses.UK temperatures have surged, yet travel demand remains largely unaffected. Travel agents report stable bookings, illustrating an unexpected strength in the market.Historically, hot weather tends to delay bookings. However, this year shows a shift as consumers prioritize travel plans over temporary climate conditions.The UEFA Euro 2024, a significant event,…

Heathrow Airport’s annual profits are set to experience a decline, surprising analysts despite the increase in passenger numbers. With projected profits down nearly 13%, the financial outlook contrasts sharply with traffic growth.Heathrow Airport anticipates a rise in passenger levels by 4.5% year-on-year, reaching an estimated 82.8 million travellers. Though this is above initial forecasts, the airport is witnessing a notable 9.7% decrease in aeronautical revenue, amounting to £2.2 billion. This contrasts a growing demand with diminishing income, largely due to a 20% reduction in regulatory charges initiated at the start of the year.The airport reports strong operational performance in the…

Not in the Guidebooks has strategically expanded its trade support team by recruiting experienced professionals from Co-op Holidays.This expansion is aimed at bolstering their capacity to meet increasing demands for experiential and sustainable travel offerings.Expansion of Trade Support TeamNot in the Guidebooks, a B Corp certified operator, has made strategic advancements in enhancing trade support by onboarding a new team from Co-op Holidays. The integration includes Tracy Lote as a sales team leader, alongside Vicky Lawrence and Hannah Mildenhall. This move represents a significant investment in strengthening their capacity to handle trade enquiries efficiently.Their commitment to providing experiential, sustainable, and…

Aer Lingus is grappling with a significant industrial challenge as talks with its pilots’ union, aimed at resolving a critical pay dispute, have failed.The failure to reach an agreement has heightened the threat of industrial action, including an eight-hour strike planned for the weekend.Failed Negotiations and Impending Strike ActionDiscussions between Aer Lingus and its pilots union have faltered, unable to resolve a critical pay dispute. This impasse has precipitated the threat of an eight-hour strike scheduled for Saturday. The breakdown of talks, which occurred yesterday, eliminated hope that the Irish Airline Pilots Association (Ialpa) would lift an indefinite work-to-rule action…