Abta News
British Airways branded ‘national disgrace’ by transport committee
The UK transport committee has criticised a British Airways decision to cut 12,000 jobs in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, calling the move a “national disgrace”.
ABTA asks government to highlight way out of quarantine
The trade body has asked the government to bring forward a coordinated plan for restarting international travel, enabling businesses and consumers to plan ahead.
Tanzer again urges clarity on travel agent refunds
ABTA chief executive Mark Tanzer has reiterated a call for the government to provide guidance on customer refunds in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.
ABTA requests furlough extension for agents
The trade body argued the move would be in recognition that travel companies will emerge from the current crisis much slower than other sectors of the UK economy.
ABTA doubles down in credit note row
Mark Tanzer, chief executive of ABTA, encouraged passengers to take credit notes as a short-term measure to prevent agents from going bust. Today he doubled down on the request, arguing the topic has attracted an “increasing focus” this week.
ABTA urges customers to support travel agents
ABTA chief executive Mark Tanzer has written an open letter to UK holidaymakers to explain ongoing problems with refunds for cancelled trips. Speaking directly to customers of ABTA members, he sought to explain how travel agents had been affected by the coronavirus pandemic and asked for support.
ABTA offers members guidance on refund credit notes
ABTA has published further guidance for members and customers on holiday amendments and refunds. The move from the travel association comes as the industry continues to wait for the government to provide clarity on the issue.
ABTA postpones Morocco convention until 2021
ABTA has postponed its annual travel convention in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The Morocco-based event was due to take place in October 2020, and will now be moved until the same time next year.
ABTA seeks mass action to secure government support for tourism sector
Despite this, and the government promise to “do whatever it takes” to protect businesses and jobs, the travel industry is still waiting for action, the trade body has argued.
ABTA criticises lack of government support for tourism sector
ABTA has again written to government ministers, including the office of the prime minister, to urge immediate action to prevent catastrophic damage to the UK travel industry.
ABTA welcomes European Commission package travel directive changes
The European Commission has relaxed package travel directive regulations amid the coronavirus pandemic. The legislation states package organisers must take out insolvency protection to cover refunds and repatriation in case of bankruptcy.
ABTA calls on government support for tourism sector
ABTA is calling for urgent action by the government to help businesses in the short-term by making funds readily available to travel and tourism companies.