Author: Shawon Hannan

EasyJet Holidays celebrates its fourth year of trade operations by announcing exclusive discounts for customers through their travel agents. This initiative reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to nurturing and expanding its partnerships within the travel industry.The promotion, targeting both beach and city breaks, aims to reward the loyalty of travel agents and optimally benefit customers, setting the stage for future growth and continued collaboration within the trade sector.Celebrating its fourth anniversary, EasyJet Holidays has announced enticing discounts of up to £100 for customers. This initiative not only marks their journey since 2020 but also recognizes the invaluable partnerships they’ve built…

UK tourism is struggling to keep pace with its closest competitors, facing a substantial £2.8 billion shortfall in tourist spending.New research by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) highlights a pre-pandemic shortfall in activity, unparalleled in other sectors.The UK saw a rise in inbound visitors over two consecutive years, reaching 38 million in 2023. However, this figure remains 7.1% below the 40.9 million recorded in 2019. Despite efforts to revive tourism, the gap persists.The CEBR’s report indicates that tourist spending in 2024 is projected to be 8.0% lower in real terms compared to 2019. This decline equates to…

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has endorsed significant reforms to the UK airport slot allocation system. These changes aim to increase market efficiency and competitive dynamics within the aviation industry.By focusing on fairness and transparency, the CMA proposes actions that could unlock new opportunities for airlines, ultimately benefiting consumers and stimulating economic growth.Current Challenges in Airport Slot AllocationThe UK airport slot allocation system has long been acknowledged as inefficient and prioritising established airlines. The current framework is criticised for supporting historic holders of slots, making it difficult for new entrants to compete. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) describes…

Heathrow Airport is facing potential turmoil as Border Force staff prepare for a strike beginning the end of August. With industrial action looming, travellers are advised to brace for significant disruptions.The strike action by Border Force staff at Heathrow is slated to last four days from August 31 to September 3, compounded by subsequent work-to-rule measures and an overtime ban. This development is likely to cause challenges for passengers, especially during the busy summer travel period.Union Dispute and Strike AnnouncementThe Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) has announced a four-day strike by Heathrow’s Border Force staff. Scheduled to commence on…

Etihad Airways has recorded a substantial rise in passenger numbers for July, indicating robust growth.An impressive 33% increase from the previous year highlights the airline’s upward trajectory and operational success.Etihad Airways experienced a significant uptick in passenger numbers, transporting 1.7 million individuals in July. This figure marks a 33% increase compared to July of the previous year. This surge in passengers demonstrates the airline’s expansive growth strategy and success in accommodating increasing traveller demands.The passenger load factor for July reached an impressive 89%. Such a high load factor indicates the airline’s capability to efficiently manage increased capacity while maintaining customer…

Holbeache Travel is set to celebrate 40 years in business with its largest event to date.The agency invites 200 guests, including long-standing clients and key supplier representatives, to a Hawaiian-themed party.Unprecedented Hawaiian-Themed CelebrationHolbeache Travel, located near Stourbridge, Birmingham, is gearing up for an unforgettable event to mark its 40th anniversary. The celebration, which will be held at DK Rugby Club in Wall Heath, is set to be the agency’s biggest event ever.The Hawaiian theme promises an evening of vibrant décor, tropical outfits, and engaging activities. The event will include live music and a delightful array of food, creating a festive…

Cathay Pacific achieved a remarkable milestone in July, recording over two million passengers for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic began. This surge was driven by long-haul flight demand.Cathay Pacific has celebrated a significant milestone, surpassing two million passengers transported in a single month for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This achievement was largely attributed to a robust demand for long-haul flights connecting Hong Kong with the rest of the world, particularly in July. The airline’s load factor reached an impressive 85.5%, marking it the highest for any month thus far in the year,…

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines is set to enhance its offerings through a new partnership with Jet2.com, launching Mediterranean fly-cruises starting in autumn 2025.This collaboration aims to deliver exceptional travel experiences by combining Fred Olsen’s cruise expertise with Jet2.com’s aviation services, offering comprehensive itineraries accessible from major UK airports.Strategic PartnershipFred Olsen Cruise Lines has announced an exciting collaboration with Jet2.com to offer new Mediterranean fly-cruises, starting in autumn 2025. This strategic partnership positions both companies to deliver enhanced travel experiences by combining expertise in aviation and cruise travel. Such alliances are pivotal in expanding service offerings and reaching wider audiences.Itineraries and…

Aer Lingus Regional, operated by Emerald Airlines, is broadening its reach with more flights between Aberdeen and Dublin. Starting next month, travellers will benefit from an increased frequency of up to two flights daily on key days.This enhancement is set to provide greater travel flexibility and connectivity for passengers, aligning with consumer demands and strategic airline objectives. The additional flights are especially beneficial for those catching transatlantic routes from Dublin.Enhanced Flight ScheduleEmerald Airlines, the operator for Aer Lingus Regional, is set to boost its service by offering additional flights between Aberdeen and Dublin. The airline will operate up to two…

Oceania Cruises has announced a strategic initiative aimed at expanding its network of travel agents in the UK. These efforts are underscored by a training program and a Mediterranean cruise incentive.Oceania Cruises is introducing an array of new training videos to broaden its trade remit and educate agents about its extensive product range. ‘We are delighted to announce this new training platform for our valued trade partners,’ remarked Jason Worth, vice president of international sales for Oceania, underscoring its importance to reaching new travel professionals.A Mediterranean cruise is up for grabs for travel agents who complete the entire video series…