Low-cost airline Jet2.com has caused a stir by axing all flights to Sharm-el-Sheikh in Egypt, despite the British Foreign Office insisting the destination is safe.

All flights will be cancelled from March 1st, with the timing of the decision generating further questions over the motivation behind the move.

Flights to Hurghada will also be cancelled from the end of February.

A statement explained: “Due to the ongoing state of civil and political unrest in Egypt, Jet2.com has suspended flight services and holidays to Sharm-el-Sheikh and Hurghada from March 1st, 2011.

“While the Red Sea resorts are not currently affected, the safety and comfort of our customers is our number one priority, and as such we do not want them to face the stressful uncertainty of whether their holiday will go ahead as planned.”

Timing

However, many passengers have questioned the decision to wait a further two weeks before cancelling departures.

Egypt remains volatile following days of street protests against incumbent president Hosni Mubarak. However, while Cairo, Alexandria and Suez remain off-limits to international visitors, Sharm-el-Sheikh has remained relatively unaffected.

“According to latest information, the Red Sea Resorts, including Sharm el Sheikh, remain calm,” the Foreign Office said today.

Jet2.com confirmed customers will receive a full refund for the cost of their flights or holiday, plus a discount off a new booking.

Additional flights to Spain and Portugal were also being offered.

The Egypt Tourist Authority earlier predicted a quick recovery in the sector following the political unrest.