Abta News
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.
ABTA calls on UK government for coronavirus support
ABTA is calling on the government to consider extraordinary support measures for businesses operating in the tourism sector in the budget next week. The request comes in the context of the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak.
Northern Italy off limits to British travellers
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office has begun to advise against “all but essential” travel to a number of regions in northern Italy. The move comes in response to various control and isolation measures imposed by the Italian authorities over the weekend.
ABTA seeks air passenger duty reform in upcoming budget
ABTA is again calling on the British government for meaningful reform of air passenger duty to maintain global competitiveness. At the same time, the travel organisation hopes changes can support the net zero carbon emissions target set for 2050.
ABTA: Six million Brits eye winter sun holidays
According to ABTA members, the Canary Islands remain the top destination for British tourists looking for sunnier weather, with Fuerteventura, Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria seeing strong bookings.
ABTA marks anniversary with new logo
ABTA is marking its 70th anniversary this year with a range of activities. These include industry events to recognise this significant milestone and thank members and other stakeholders for their contribution to the association.
Keep calm: ABTA updates Brexit advice to UK travellers
This latest advice highlights that the UK is now on track to enter a transition period at the end of the month meaning that all travel requirements and arrangements will remain the same until at least the end of December.
Brand director Bacon to leave ABTA early next year
Bacon has decided to step down from her role to focus on consultancy and advisory work in the short term, alongside spending more time with family, before considering options in the longer term.
Rowland elected ABTA chairman during annual general meeting
Alistair Rowland has been elected chairman of ABTA following the annual general meeting. Chief retail officer with the Mid-Counties Co-operative, Rowland takes up his position with immediate effect.
UK airline insolvency review recommends new levy on passengers
The department for transport has recommended a levy of 50 pence per person on all flights to insure against the future collapse of UK-based airlines. The news comes as the government body publishes the final report from the independent airline insolvency review, which was chaired by Peter Bucks.