Abta expects the Canary islands, Alicante and Egypt to be popular short-haul destinations, while winter sun lovers will pick options such as Dubai and India for a long-haul trip.
Tromso and Lapland will be the most popular destinations for travellers wanting a traditional snowy Christmas experience. Other winter holidays such as Munich and Frankfurt have also been selling well.
London, Edinburgh and Dublin continue to entice domestic travellers for New Year’s Eve, while Amsterdam, Budapest and Berlin will be popular international alternatives.
Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer said: “Whether holidaymakers are flying away for some winter sun, travelling to a snowy destination or staying closer to home, this year’s festive break looks set to be another busy one.
“It’s important people allow extra time for their journeys and check ahead for any disruption if travelling by public transport.”
Abta recommends travellers book early in January to take full advantage of discounts and free child places. It has also moved to reassure customers that flights will continue between the UK and the EU in the event of a no-deal Brexit and UK visitors to EU countries will not require a visa.
The European Commission has said that from 2021, UK citizens will need to pay a fee of $7 for a visa exemption, which is part of a new electronic travel authorisation system applying to all third country visitors to the EU.
