Travel column with Katie Butler, Total Travel: Positive updates from tour operators and airlines in addition to ABTA

With headlines often focusing on uncertainty, it is no surprise that our customers are seeking reassurance before committing to their next trip. Thankfully, there has been some very welcome and positive news from both major tour operators and industry bodies that should help put minds at ease.

One of the most reassuring updates came from Jet2, who were the first to clearly confirm that they will not introduce fuel surcharges on any booked flights or holidays. This means that once a holiday is booked, the price is locked in, regardless of any fluctuations in fuel costs. In a climate where speculation has suggested that some airlines might pass rising costs onto customers after booking, this firm stance offers a great deal of certainty. Following this announcement, other major names including TUI and easyJet were quick to offer similar reassurances, which is encouraging news for the industry as a whole and for customers planning their summer holidays.

Alongside updates from operators, guidance from ABTA has also helped clarify the situation around fuel supply. Despite ongoing global events and media speculation, holidays are continuing to operate as normal. There is currently no widespread disruption to UK flights due to jet fuel availability, with airlines sourcing fuel from a wide range of locations to maintain supply. While there have been reports of some European airlines reducing a small number of flights to manage fuel costs, these tend to involve consolidating multiple services to the same destination on the same day. In such cases, passengers are typically transferred onto alternative flights, often departing on the same day, meaning travel plans can proceed with minimal disruption.

On a more positive note, it was a pleasure last week to step away from the phones briefly and attend a Travel Agents Appreciation lunch hosted by Travelpack in Manchester. It was a fantastic opportunity to hear updates directly from a valued supplier and to spend time with industry colleagues. Events like these are a reminder of the strong relationships behind the scenes that help keep everything running smoothly for our customers.

New holiday bookings also continue to give an interesting insight into what is taking a pattern. May remains the most popular departure month, accounting for 17 per cent of bookings last week, followed by June at ten per cent and July at nine per cent. Notably, late bookings are still very much a strong trend in the market, making up 39 per cent of total new bookings and showing that many people are still happy or more confident to make plans closer to departure.

All in all, while headlines may at times seem concerning, the reality is that the travel industry is working hard to provide stability, transparency and reassurance. Holidays are going ahead, protections are firmly in place, and customers can continue to book with confidence as we head into the busy summer season.