The European Commission’s decision to extend its no-deal Brexit aviation plans for a further six months is a huge boost. UK airlines had previously been given permission to operate flights to and from the EU until March 2020, but the new deadline of 24 October provides more reassurance for travel and its customers (p8).
The threat of an election, though, is another Sword of Damocles hanging over our sector’s head. Thankfully, industry professionals are becoming ever more vocal about their frustration with government and, crucially, it seems they are being listened to.
ITT chair Steven Freudmann reveals this week the institute has quietly been contacting MPs and lords “to make sure the industry’s voice is heard”, insisting responses from offices such as Lib Dem leader Jo Swinson have been “welcoming and encouraging” (p6).
Meanwhile, in his first trade commentary, new Abta chair Alistair Rowland tells TTG as the UK navigates the “uncharted waters” of Brexit, the association will continue to prioritise offering support for members in its contingency preparations (p6 & 9).
He also points out dealing with change in travel is “nothing new”. And it’s heartening to see the sector getting on with things, despite the political stalemate.
This week, Attraction World’s new chief commercial officer reveals exclusively to TTG “a new dawn” for the brand (p7). Elsewhere, easyJet has reaffirmed plans to launch its new-look easyJet Holidays by the end of 2019, with chief executive Johan Lundgren insisting “now is the perfect time to launch” (p9).
Parliament may be in turmoil, but for travel – like every other sector – it’s business as usual.
