Thomas Cook has ruled out a return to Egyptian beach resort Sharm el Sheikh for the summer of 2017.

The decision comes amid continued fears over terrorism in the destination and a resulting ban on flights departing from the UK to the resort’s airport.

The decision comes six weeks after Monarch cancelled all flight and holiday bookings to the destination.

Both moves come despite efforts to improve security at the Sharm el Sheikh airport from the Egyptian authorities.

Flights were suspended from a number of destinations following the bombing of a Russian charter flight shortly after take-off last autumn.

However, the UK ban is the only significant limitation remaining in place, with other European source markets green lighting a return.

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office continues to advise against “all but essential” travel by air to Sharm el Sheikh.

Thomas Cook UK & Ireland managing director Chris Mottershead said: “Over the last few months, people have regularly asked me when Thomas Cook hopes to resume trips to Sharm el Sheikh from the UK.

“The decision ultimately rests with the Foreign & Commonwealth Office which issues expert security advice for UK travellers.

“Since October 2015 it has advised against flying to Sharm el Sheikh Airport and we have had no indication that this is likely to change in the near future.

“We will continue to offer holidays to the popular and growing resort town of Hurghada on the Red Sea Riviera in Egypt.”