Jet2holidays, in response to animal welfare campaigns, has decided to cease ticket sales for attractions involving orcas, whales, and dolphins.
- This policy change marks a victory for Peta, which advocated for ethical treatment of marine animals over two years.
- Other travel companies including EasyJet, Expedia, and Virgin Atlantic have similarly stopped promoting these attractions.
- Peta’s Elisa Allen praised Jet2holidays for taking a stand against animal exploitation in entertainment parks.
- Attention shifts to Tui to reconsider their stance, as current bookings with Jet2holidays will still be honoured.
Jet2holidays’ decision to halt sales of tickets for attractions featuring orcas, whales, and dolphins follows a successful campaign by animal rights group Peta. The travel company has been commended for choosing to focus on ethical tourism practices. Other companies, such as EasyJet, Expedia, and Virgin Atlantic, have already implemented similar measures, signalling a broader industry move towards more responsible tourism.
Elisa Allen, Peta’s vice-president of programmes, expressed approval of Jet2holidays’ decision, stating, “Jet2holidays made the right call to cut ties with parks that confine orcas and other dolphins to concrete tanks that are to them the size of bathtubs and force them to perform circus-like stunts for human entertainment.” Her remarks highlight the ethical concern of using marine animals for entertainment purposes.
Jet2holidays’ policy change is part of an ongoing review process aimed at enhancing customer service and company operations through stakeholder feedback. As the UK’s largest tour operator, they have a significant influence on industry trends. The change will officially take effect on 27 March 2024, with the company reassuring customers that existing bookings will be honoured.
Peta’s campaign is now focusing on Tui, urging them to follow Jet2holidays’ lead. This growing advocacy for responsible tourism reflects a shift in public attitudes towards attractions that exploit animals.”
Jet2holidays’ policy shift signifies a growing trend in the travel industry towards ethical and responsible tourism.
