Air travel

Popular budget airline is to cancel routes in 2026 after a row with officials

Ryanair has given bad news for passengers going to 12 destinations. The airline regularly keeps customers with bookings in the loop regarding travel updates and on its website has explained that the routes are being chopped.

It said that 12 routes are being cut – with the result that 700,000 seats are effectively being lost to air gtravel. The issue has arisen around its Thessaloniki base – meaning it’s closing for the three aircraft based there. It said: “This devastating loss in off-peak winter connectivity is the direct result of the hopelessly uncompetitive costs charged at the German-run Fraport Greece monopoly and Athens Airport.

“The Greek Govt. made the wise decision to reduce the Airport Development Fee (ADF) by 75% (from €12 to €3 per passenger) from November’24, which should have directly stimulated year-round connectivity and tourism across Greece. However, most Greek airports, particularly those run by Fraport Greece, refused to pass the tax cut onto passengers and instead have pocketed the tax cut for themselves. Since then, Fraport Greece have continued to increase charges, which are now +66% above their pre-Covid levels. Likewise, Athens Airport will hike charges this Winter.

“Consequently, Greek airports are no longer competitive in the off-peak shoulder and Winter months, when the tourism industry’s reliance on low-fare connectivity is most acute. Ryanair has therefore been left with no choice but to reallocate capacity to more competitive countries like Albania, regional Italy, and Sweden where airports have passed on the savings from Govt. tax reductions. “

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Ryanair said it presented an ambitious growth plan to the Greek government in what it said would grow traffic to 12m passengers per annum, base 10 additional aircraft and launch 50 new routes over the next 5 years. It said it would carry out the plan if airport charges were frozen and the 75% Airport Development Fee reduction is passed on to passengers at all airports.

Ryanair Chief Commercial Officer, Jason McGuinness said: “Ryanair regrets to announce the closure of our Thessaloniki base and reductions in Athens for Winter ‘26, resulting in the loss of 700,000 seats and 12 routes across Greece, as well as the suspension of operations at Chania and Heraklion during the off-peak months. These preventable traffic reductions are a direct result of the airports’ failure to pass through the ADF reduction, particularly in Thessaloniki where the Fraport Greece monopoly have hiked airport charges +66% since 2019.

“The removal of 3 based aircraft, 500,000 seats (-60% vs. Winter ‘25) and 10 routes from Thessaloniki for Winter ‘26 will be devastating for the city and region, as Ryanair provided 90% of international capacity to Thessaloniki last Winter. Unfortunately, there will now be less low-cost air fares for Thessaloniki’s citizens and visitors, and year-round tourism will be harmed as a result. These aircraft will be reallocated to Albania, regional Italy and Sweden, where airports have passed on their Govt’s aviation tax savings – resulting in more connectivity, tourism and jobs this Winter in those regions.

“There is an opportunity for Greece to secure significant year-round traffic growth however, this investment can only be realised once the German-run Fraport Greece monopoly fully passes through the Greek Govt.’s sensible tax cut from November’24 – allowing airlines such as Ryanair, to deliver the connectivity required to reduce Greece’s chronic seasonality.”

The cancelled routes:

• Thessaloniki to Berlin
• Thessaloniki to Chania
• Thessaloniki to Frankfurt-H
• Thessaloniki to Gothenburg
• Thessaloniki to Heraklion
• Thessaloniki to Niederrhein
• Thessaloniki to Poznan
• Thessaloniki to Stockholm
• Thessaloniki to Venice-T
• Thessaloniki to Zagreb
• Athens to Milan-M
• Chania to Paphos

Ryanair has also pulled its aircraft from Chania and Heraklion.

Fraport, which runs 14 airports in Greece said Ryanair’s decision is “exclusively related” to the airline’s commercial strategy and profitability considerations. “Any claims linking this decision to airport charges or the airport development fee imposed by the Greek state are entirely unfounded,” it adds. Fraport Greece has invested over €100 million (£86 million) to upgrade Thessaloniki, the statement added.

Meanwhile, Ryanair has announced the closure of its Berlin operating base and a 50% reduction in its winter schedule to the German capital, citing escalating aviation taxes in the country. The Irish budget airline confirmed that relocating seven aircraft to alternative hubs would see its Berlin passenger numbers drop from 4.5 million to 2.2 million annually.

Although it seems non-optional, passengers always have a choice to go with an alternative

Passing through security is an essential part of travelling through an airport. However, passengers always have the right to decline certain types of searches.

Usually, after checking in for a flight, travellers go through the airport and must pass through security before entering the main terminal and boarding any aircraft. The procedure can be time-consuming, particularly during busy summer holidays, but it typically involves sending hand luggage through a scanner and passing through a security checkpoint yourself.

However, under UK Department for Transport (DfT) regulations, you always have the right to decline a body scan. You don’t actually need to provide a valid legal or medical reason for refusing this and can simply state that you prefer not to go through the scanner for personal reasons.

Some travellers decline to be scanned if they have medical equipment, such as a pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). You can also request a manual search of hearing aids, reports the Express.

Regarding medical supplies in hand luggage, the GOV.UK website states: “You should bring a letter from your doctor stating why they should not be scanned. However, it is up to the airport to decide if they need to be scanned or not.”

Pregnant mothers who may feel uneasy about being scanned are assured by the UK government that scanners (which use non-ionising millimetre-wave technology, not X-rays) are safe. However, this doesn’t mean you can bypass security checks entirely, as passengers will still be required to go through an alternative screening procedure.

If you decline for non-medical reasons, the rules require passengers to undergo an enhanced manual search in private. This means being escorted to a separate room away from the main security queue for a procedure that some describe as more thorough than a routine pat-down.

At least two security officers will be present, and it may require loosening or taking off certain items of clothing to confirm that nothing is hidden. The procedure can also add 20 to 45 minutes to your time at security, depending on how many staff are available, so factor in potential flight delays and make sure there’s enough time to get to the gate before your plane leaves.

What do airport scans show? How long are they kept for?

The GOV.UK website states that adults and children can be asked to have a body scan. It said: “You’ll have the scan in the security area, with a member of airport staff present. It will take just a few seconds.

“Your image will show if you have a colostomy, implant or prosthesis. Security staff have been trained to handle sensitive issues around surgery and treat passengers respectfully.

“After the scan, only you and a security officer will see a mannequin-style diagram on a small screen. No bodily features or skin will be seen. Your scan will be permanently deleted after it’s been assessed by a security officer.”

You can ask for a security officer of the same sex to analyse the screen for your scan. They will not be able to identify you from the scanned image and you will not meet the security officer.

A statement on GOV.UK reads: “If you’re wearing headgear for religious or cultural reasons, you can ask for it to be checked using a hand-held scanner so you do not have to remove it.”

If you’ve made a purchase in duty-free, you may want to check ahead of time to see if you’re actually able to use it on board, as there’s one item strictly prohibited

Brits travelling abroad need to stay alert to the items they can and cannot take onboard, but do they know about the rules regarding items they buy at the airport?

Travelling with bottles in any shape or form usually comes with its restrictions, as many airports ask for you to pack liquids in measurements only up to 100ml. However, there are some far stricter rules when it comes to the liquid you’re buying in duty-free – particularly alcohol.

At most airports, you can buy bottles of wine, spirits, beers, and more; sometimes up to a liter of each is sold at discounted prices. And yet, despite being able to make the purchase at the airport, you are strictly prohibited from drinking it or even opening it on the plane.

Duty-free alcohol is generally allowed on board, passing as a form of carry-on luggage, when purchased after getting your security checks. Although it is almost always placed inside a sealed Security Tamper-Evident Bag, paired with the receipt.

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Within aviation law, this bag must remain sealed throughout the whole duration of the flight, a rule that is consistent across all airlines. Passengers must not consume their own duty-free alcohol on the plane, as all alcohol must be purchased from the cabin crew.

If there’s anything else you’ve purchased from duty-free, you will need to ensure it is placed in a separate bag or in your carry-on luggage to avoid it being trapped inside the sealed bag for the duration of the flight.

The rule is consistent, yet each airline may handle people consuming this alcohol differently, with potential fines for those who break the rules.

Jet2 states: “You may not bring on board alcohol for the purposes of consumption whilst on the aircraft. For safety reasons, we restrict the consumption of alcohol on board. Only alcoholic drinks purchased on board may be consumed during the flight. It is an offence to be drunk on any aircraft. Jet2.com reserves the right to serve alcoholic drinks to customers at our absolute discretion.”

After some recent confusion with passengers boarding Ryanair flights, a spokesperson made it clear where they stand when it comes to drinking on board. They said: “We are not ‘banning’ or ‘confiscating’ duty-free alcohol at boarding gates. As per Ryanair’s T&Cs, passengers can carry duty-free alcohol onboard but must not consume it during the flight.”

Across the majority of airlines, when it comes to alcohol consumption, they have a zero-tolerance policy on ‘disruptive behaviour’ and have the right to reject drunken and disorderly passengers from boarding the flight.

Meaning, even if you’re yet to take a swig of your duty-free bottle, you should be wary of how much alcohol you’re drinking within airport bars and restaurants.

As for the duty-free bag itself, this is often allowed as an extra courtesy to take on the flight, provided that it fits under your seat. However, this is typically limited to one bag per person and does not encourage passengers to hop on board with multiple additional bags after a huge shopping spree.

It was hit shortly after taking off from Gatwick Airport. The moment was captured on camera

An easyJet aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing after being struck by lightning shortly following takeoff. Flight U28305 was hit not long after departing from runway 08R at Gatwick Airport on Thursday, 14 May at 2.22pm.

Turbulent weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy rain, were reported in the area at the time. The lightning strike was captured on camera and widely shared across social media platforms.

The aircraft continued to climb briefly before the pilots, having reached 16,000 feet, requested permission to land and turned back to Gatwick for a full inspection. The plane, an Airbus A319 registered as G-EZDH, had been scheduled to travel to Milan, Italy, but touched back down at Gatwick just 27 minutes after taking off.

easyJet confirmed that no passengers or crew were injured, and that the aircraft returned ‘as a routine precaution’. A spokesperson stated: “EasyJet can confirm that flight U28305 from London Gatwick to Milan diverted back to London due to a lightning strike on the aircraft. The aircraft landed safely and was met by emergency services as a routine precaution.”

According to the National Weather Service, aircraft are struck by lightning on average once or twice annually. It notes: “They are designed and built to have conducting paths through the plane to take the lightning strike and conduct the currents.

“Actually, aircraft often initiate the strike because their presence enhances the ambient electric fields typical for thunderstorms and facilitates electrical breakdown through air.”

Aircraft must undergo a compulsory inspection following a lightning strike to assess any potential damage. Numerous planes aren’t required to be built with lightning protection as standard. There hasn’t been a lightning-related commercial transport aeroplane crash in decades.

Airlines have been forced to cancel and amend flight schedules due to the ongoing Middle East conflict and soaring jet fuel prices, with Qatar Airways also hit with suspended routes

Qatar Airways has become the latest airline to cancel flights this May.

Since the Middle East conflict erupted in late February, airlines have been forced to axe routes and amend flight schedules due to restricted airspace across the Gulf region. The situation was heightened by Iran’s blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20 per cent of the world’s oil and gas passes, triggering a worldwide shortage and skyrocketing jet fuel prices.

With growing concerns over the long-term supply of jet fuel, a whopping 18 airlines have announced cancellations, and 13,000 flights worldwide have been taken from May schedules, according to figures from aviation analytics firm Cirium. Now, Qatar Airways is the latest airline to have routes axed, with flights to 22 cities suspended during May and beyond.

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Qatar Airways has suspended flights from its Doha Hamad International Airport (DOH) to four European countries, Malta, Sarajevo, Sofia, and Venice, according to Simple Flying. As airlines prioritise their routes amid the jet fuel crisis, it is thought Qatar Airways will resume routes to Malta, Sofia and Venice in September.

Additionally, the Doha-based airline is not currently offering flights from its hub to Canberra, Cebu, Djibouti, Kano, Kigali, Mogadishu, Nagpur, or Zanzibar. Around half of these routes are expected to return in September, after one of the busiest travel periods, the summer holidays.

As a result of the Middle East conflict, drone and missile strikes caused major airspace closures, which severely impacted the Doha-based airline. Further routes suspended by Qatar Airways include flights to Aleppo, Gassim, Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen, Mashhad, Neom Bay, Shiraz, Tabuk, Taif, Tehran, and Yanbu. In addition to three cities in Iran, where the airspace remains closed.

Some of the suspended routes, excluding Aleppo and Iran, are expected to resume in September. In total, 22 routes have been suspended.

However, it’s not all bad news in the world of aviation this week. Qatar Airways announced that it is resuming some of its routes and that its Airbus A380s will return next month. The plane has been grounded. In a statement released on 13 May, the airline said: “Qatar Airways continues to restore its network across the Middle East, with the resumption of double-daily passenger flights to Abu Dhabi (AUH), the capital of the United Arab Emirates.”

This comes after the airline announced plans to expand its network further in time for the summer holidays. “Qatar Airways is expanding its international flight network, with services to over 150 destinations from 16 June 2026, connecting more passengers to more of the world this summer,” the statement read.

Airlines with cancelledflights in May

• Air Asia X
• Air Canada
• Air China
• Air Transat
• Air New Zealand
• Asiana Airlines
• Cathay Pacific
• Delta
• KLM
• Lufthansa
• Norse Atlantic
• Qantas
• Qatar Airways
• SAS
• Thai Airways
• Turkish Airlines
• United Airlines
• Vietjet
• Vietnam Airlines

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

Many Brits are concerned that the new EU Entry/Exit system (EES) could put a dampener on their holidays, but an obscure clause could mean that the system is paused at the busiest times

Summer 2026 is shaping up to be uncertain for holidaymakers. A combination of the jet fuel issues and new requirements for Brits entering the European Union (EU), means many travellers are braced for delays, cancellations, or long airport queues.

But a little-known clause in the EES rules could become a lifeline for Brits heading to Europe this summer, and it could be invoked if the queues at European airports become too long.

Some countries are already taking their own measures to tackle the chaos caused by EES. Greece has switched from using EES back to manual passport stamping to ensure a smoother entry system. While reports that Italy and Portugal may follow suit have been shut down by Brussels.

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However, there are exemptions built into the EES system that could be invoked in “exceptional circumstances” and these could potentially come into play if the new procedures overwhelm EU airports.

A parliamentary briefing notes that the European Commission “referred to the possibility” that EU countries could “suspend EES operations potentially for a further 150 days after the 10 April implementation date.”

This suspension can be for periods of up to six hours in “exceptional circumstances where there are excessive waiting times”, the document went on to say.

This means that up until July 9, some borders would have the power to suspend EES for up to six hours a day.

“Member States should use that possibility only when such suspension is strictly necessary and for the shortest period possible. In the case of partial suspension, the registration of biometric data in the EES should be suspended. In the case of full suspension, no data should be recorded in the EES,” the legislation adds.

Since the implementation of the new system, there have been mixed reports on its efficiency. Some have claimed that it’s made the process of getting through the airport tougher for Brits. Holidaymakers have reported long lines, blaming slow software and machines going down, while others have claimed it’s made little difference in times getting through the airport.

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Later this year, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will also come into play, requiring Brits to get a pre-travel authorisation before they enter the EU.

While this visa waiver system was set to cost €7, just over £6, the fee has now been set at €20, about £17.37, almost three times the original cost. All travellers aged between 18-70 will need to apply before they travel once the new system is launched.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

The holidaymaker revealed how he enjoyed a week-long holiday at a budget price

A social media user has wowed travel fans after sharing how much he spent on a week’s holiday in Mexico. The holidaymaker explained his bargain travel hack in a TikTok post shared under the username @Byseyi.

In the viral video, Byseyi revealed he spent £360 per person on a last-minute holiday to Mexico. He said: “So this is one travel tip that I don’t really hear that many people talk about. And this is actually how me and my wife travelled to Mexico for a week for around £360 per person, and that’s flights and accommodation.”

The TikTok creator claims: “So if you’re able to travel last-minute, go and look at TUI’s last-minute flight deals on the flight section of their website. Because what happens is they’re trying to get rid of some of these last-minute flights and not have empty seats going. So we ended up booking a flight for two people to go to Cancun, Mexico, for £538 for both of us.

“Managed to find some good accommodation in Tulum that was cheap for £185. And even right now, if you go on the website, you’ll see a flight to the Dominican Republic for £384 if you’re able to travel in the month of May.

“So it’s really just for those people, maybe you had a holiday that got cancelled and you’re trying to plan a new thing, or you have the flexibility to just travel last minute. So it doesn’t apply to everyone, but for those that it can work for, you can get something good for cheap.”

The video gained over 115k views and 14k likes on TikTok. Replying to the video, a viewer said: “Thanks for reminding me being fully remote is a win.” A second comment read: “A digital nomads dream lol …let me go check out TUI.” A third social media user wrote: “Yep! TUI got me to Aruba for £196 return, directttt! best!”

Someone else shared: “I always like these deals but they don’t work for people who like to explore more than one city in a country. But I think it’s great when you are simply looking for anywhere to go to.”

Another response said: “How close to the departure date did you book?” The travel lover replied: “Booked on the 23rd of Feb, flew out 3rd of March.”

Passengers looking for last-minute flights can browse deals on TUI’s website, where there’s a section dedicated to cheap flights. Customers can filter their search by departure date, with options ranging from within seven days to three months. Alternatively, customers planning further ahead can refine their search by month.

Chris Logan, Commercial Director at TUI UK and Ireland, said: “If you’ve got a bit of flexibility, our last-minute flight deals can be a brilliant way to grab a great-value getaway. Flying from over 20 airports across the UK, making it easy to pick a date, pack a bag and set off from a nearby airport. There’s a great choice of destinations on offer too – from European favourites like Spain and Greece, to long-haul escapes across the Caribbean, including Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, as well as Florida.

“These direct flights include 10kg of hand luggage as standard, with the option to add more, upgrade for extra space or enjoy a more premium travel experience. It’s always worth checking back – you might find something that gets you away sooner than you think.”

Industry leaders have not ruled out fuel shortages this summer

Airlines will not be able to continue “absorbing the cost” of disruption caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz in the long term, according to the director general of the International Air Transport Association. Willie Walsh told the BBC there was no need to panic over potential jet fuel shortages, but warned rising fuel prices would inevitably feed through into higher ticket prices.

He said: “There’s just no way airlines can absorb the additional costs they’re experiencing. There may be some instances where airlines will discount to stimulate some traffic flow… but over time it’s inevitable that the high price of oil will be reflected in higher ticket prices.”

While Mr Walsh did not think there would be widespread cancellations, he added: “I think the concern will be that if sufficient alternative supply isn’t sourced, there may be some shortages when we get into the peak summer period.”

Last week, British Airways’ parent company IAG warned its profits will be hit as it expects to spend about two billion euro (£1.72 billion) more than planned on fuel this year. Chief executive Luis Gallego said IAG does not believe there will be “any interruption for the summer” in terms of jet fuel supplies.

Earlier this month, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said summer holiday plans will not face major disruption because of shortages. She revealed that more fuel has been imported from America, and UK refineries have upped their production.

The Government has also introduced a temporary rule change allowing airlines to group passengers from different flights together onto fewer planes to save fuel. It comes amid data that showed airlines have increased the number of flight cancellations for May.

Aviation analytics company Cirium said that as of Tuesday, airlines have axed 296 departures from UK airports this month, equivalent to 0.75% of the total. That is up from 120 cancellations six days ago.

Figures for the peak summer months show week-on-week schedule reductions are currently limited. The number of outbound flights planned for June is 48 lower than a week ago, after 0.2% of flights were cancelled.

For July the week-on-week reduction is 31, while the figure for August is just four. Airlines avoid being liable for compensation if they axe a flight with at least two weeks’ notice, meaning they can delay decisions on summer cancellations and still avoid payouts.

The price of jet fuel has more than doubled since the start of the war in the Middle East, as Iran continues to have a stranglehold on tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz. A Government spokesperson said: “UK airlines are clear that they are not currently seeing a shortage of jet fuel.

“Aviation fuel is typically bought in advance and airports and suppliers keep stocks of bunkered fuel to support their resilience. We continue to work with fuel suppliers, airports, airlines and international counterparts to keep flights operating.

“We are also consulting on measures to help airlines plan realistic flight schedules which will avoid last-minute disruption and protect holidays.”

In some cases, people could be hit with hefty fines

A UK airport has issued a warning as travellers may be unaware they could be risking a £5,000 fine after taking sandwiches on board a flight. Many passengers purchase food at airports, or pack their own, and carry it onto planes without any trouble.

However, London Luton Airport has highlighted what the law actually states. And if you’re heading abroad anytime soon, it’s well worth taking note.

A post on X from the airport’s official account reads: “It is illegal to bring meats such as lamb, pork or beef or dairy products from the EU into GB in your luggage. This means items such as cheese, cured or raw meats, sandwiches and milk, including duty free purchases.”

The guidance applies to all airports across England, Scotland and Wales. Should you be caught carrying any prohibited items – including sandwiches containing meat or dairy – and fail to declare these to Border Force officers at customs, you could face prosecution, or a £5,000 fine (in England only).

Rules around bringing in meat, dairy, fish and other animal products differ depending on the country of origin. If you are travelling back from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Faroe Islands and Greenland, you are banned from bringing in any of the following:

• cheese, milk and dairy products like butter and yoghurt
• pork
• beef
• lamb
• mutton
• goat
• venison
• other products made from these meats, for example sausages

You can bring in the following for personal use:

• fish
• poultry, for example chicken, duck, goose and any other products made from these meats
• other animal products, for example eggs and honey

You may also bring in up to 2kg per person of powdered infant milk, infant food, or special food required for medical purposes. This is only allowed if it does not require refrigeration before use, and is in branded, unopened packaging (unless currently in use).

If you are travelling from a country outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, the Faroe Islands and Greenland, you are prohibited from bringing any meat or meat products, or milk or milk-based products, with the exception of powdered infant milk, infant food or special food needed for medical reasons.

You are, however, permitted to bring in up to 2kg per person of:

• honey
• powdered infant milk, infant food, or special food (including pet food) needed for medical reasons – you can only bring it in if it does not need to be refrigerated before use, and is in branded, unopened packaging (unless in current use)
• live mussels or oysters
• snails – these must be preserved or shelled, cooked and prepared
• frogs’ legs – these must be the back (hind) part of the frog with the skin and internal organs removed
• insect protein

You may bring in up to 20kg per person in total of fish, including:

• fresh fish – must be gutted
• fish products
• processed fish – must be dried, cooked, cured or smoked
• lobsters
• prawns

Travellers have been told ‘not to panic’ if they have flights planned for the summer

Many travellers are worried that their summer flights may be at risk as the jet fuel supply disruptions have left some airlines cancelling and rescheduling flights. Now, hantavirus has also trigger some anxiety as passengers fear they may be facing the same disruptions they experienced during the Covid pandemic.

While health experts have been assured the public that hantavirus is “not like Covid”, according to BBC’s Dr Xand, a travel expert explained exactly what rights you have if your flight is cancelled for these reasons.

Hannah Mayfield explained: “If your flight is cancelled because of a global health emergency or another major disruption outside the airline’s control, passengers are still entitled under UK261 to either a full refund or alternative flight.

“That obligation remains firmly with the airline, even in extraordinary circumstances. What may not apply, however, is additional compensation.

“We saw significant confusion around this during the coronavirus pandemic.”

The travel money expert with specialist travel insurance comparison website PayingTooMuch, urged people to learn the “crucial” distinction between these two as some travellers mistakenly believe that if they aren’t entitled to compensation then they aren’t entitled to anything.

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Ultimately, the expert assured everyone with upcoming flights: “The key message for travellers this summer is not to panic, but to understand where responsibility sits before problems arise. Knowing your rights in advance makes it much easier to act quickly and avoid unnecessary stress or expense if your faced with disruptions.”

She continued: “Airlines are responsible for passenger rights linked to the flight itself, including refunds, rebooking, and assistance during disruption.

“Travel insurance, by contrast, is there to protect against wider personal financial risks such as cancellation due to illness, emergency medical treatment abroad and repatriation as well as things like baggage lost items and in some cases irrecoverable costs that cannot be recovered from airlines or travel providers depending on the cover.”

Checking your travel insurance and how you paid for the flight before you leave can also add some extra protection. The expert urged: “It’s equally important to read the travel insurance policy carefully before travelling.

“Many people only discover exclusions relating to pandemics, wider disruption, or government travel advisories when they come to make a claim.”

Hannah explained that if you used a credit card to pay for your flight, Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act can “provide valuable additional protection in some instances”. While those who paid with debit cards may have “less robust” protections.

easyJet boss has hit out at a new rule expected to come into force

Passengers flying within Europe could soon see a significant shift in baggage rules, and travellers are being put on notice.

At present, those travelling on basic fares with easyJet, as well as with Ryanair, are restricted to one small personal item, with any extra luggage attracting additional fees. Following changes to EU regulations, Ryanair was required to enlarge the maximum dimensions of its personal bags last year. The revised rules permit passengers to carry hand luggage measuring up to 40 x 30 x 20cm, a 20% boost from the former 40 x 20 x 25cm restriction.

easyJet’s personal bag specifications already complied with these requirements, meaning no adjustment was necessary. And now further EU regulatory shifts could enable travellers to bring both a cabin bag measuring up to 100cm and a personal bag without incurring additional charges.

In February, the European Parliament voted overwhelmingly to grant all passengers the entitlement to carry a small case in addition to the complimentary under-seat bags currently allowed. The Parliament’s proposal would give passengers the right to bring on board, at no extra charge, one personal item (such as a handbag, rucksack or laptop) and one small piece of hand luggage with maximum combined dimensions of 100cm (length, width and height) and weighing up to seven kilos.

The proposed reforms, which must receive approval from the European Council before becoming law, would apply to all travellers flying to or from an EU airport on an EU-based airline. This directly affects the overwhelming majority of short-haul flights departing from the UK.

While this may seem like a positive development for passengers, easyJet has slammed the proposals to enforce free additional baggage as a “lunatic idea”. Chief executive Kenton Jarvis insisted that granting all passengers the right to extra free carry-on luggage would be “crazy” and “terrible for the consumer”.

The easyJet boss described it as “politicians completely not understanding their subject and getting involved with things they shouldn’t”, adding: “There just isn’t the space in the cabin, so that’s another lunatic idea. We would go back to the days of having to offload cabin bags and put them in the hold – it was one of the number one causes of delayed boarding in the old days.”

Baggage fees accounted for a significant portion of easyJet’s more than £2.5bn in annual income from extras, or ancillary revenue, “and that would have to be passed on” through increased fares for all passengers, he warned.

The bundle includes three suitcases in different sizes, designed to cover everything from short weekend breaks to longer holidays abroad

Holidaymakers hoping to upgrade their luggage without spending a fortune might want to pop into Home Bargains before jetting off on their next summer getaway. The discount retailer has quietly slashed the price of a travel essential by nearly £90, and it’s being hailed as “perfect for every trip”.

Home Bargains has cut the price of the Overlow Suitcase Set of 3, which normally sells for £149.99, down to a bargain £59.99. The set comprises three suitcases in varying sizes, catering for everything from quick weekend escapes to extended holidays overseas.

According to the product listing, each case is crafted from lightweight ABS material with a hard-shell construction designed to offer durability while minimising weight. The product description, available on the Home Bargains website, reads: “Travel smart with the Overlow Suitcase Set of 3 in sleek black – lightweight, durable ABS material with smooth 4-wheel glide for effortless airport navigation. Perfect for every trip, whether you pack light or heavy.

“Modern Suitcase. Lightweight. Whether you pack light or travel heavy, we’ve got you covered! The smooth 4-wheel glide makes navigating airports effortless, while the strong yet lightweight material ensures durability without adding extra weight.”

The largest case measures 70 x 48 x 29cm, while the medium and cabin sizes come in at 60 x 41 x 26cm and 50 x 35 x 20cm respectively. All three cases are designed to stack inside one another for convenient storage when not being used.

Home Bargains describes the set as “perfect for any trip”, emphasising its lightweight construction and smooth-rolling wheels as standout features designed to reduce travel hassle. Thanks to the current discount, shoppers can now save an impressive 60 per cent, with comparable sets elsewhere carrying significantly steeper price tags.

Budget-friendly suitcase sets such as this have grown increasingly sought-after amongst travellers seeking to reduce costs before holidays, especially as travel demand continues climbing during peak booking seasons. Retailers have noted strong appetite for affordable luggage bundles as families and solo travellers hunt for value-focused alternatives.

The set is also stocked in other colours including grey and navy through the same retailer, with prices staying uniform across the collection while stocks remain available. Shoppers keen on the offer can locate further information, including home delivery arrangements, via the Home Bargains website.

Anyone with holidays planned needs to know the rules before they fly

Getting your boarding pass sorted is one of the first things to clear before jetting off on holiday, but some Brits risk being caught out at the check-in desk by overlooking a rule certain airlines have introduced. It is essential to know whether your documents need to be in a specific format to pass through the airport smoothly.

Previously, most UK carriers left it up to passengers to choose between printing boarding passes at home or having them on smartphones at the airport. However, it’s important to understand what your airline now allows, as failing to do so could put your entire trip in trouble.

Paper boarding passes are steadily being phased out in favour of digital options. Most airlines now issue tickets via email, apps, or other methods rather than paper.

In many instances, travellers can still print their passes at home or at the airport. It’s advisable to verify your airline’s specific policies (both outbound and return) beforehand, according to the Express.

Ryanair

Budget airline Ryanair has switched entirely to digital as of November 2025. Passengers travelling with the carrier will receive their boarding pass electronically via the Ryanair app once check-in is complete.

On its website, the airline states that its digital boarding passes “get rid of 300 tonnes of paper annually” and contribute to “lower airport costs and fares for all Ryanair passengers”.

Discussing check-in, Ryanair say that all “passengers will still receive email reminders to check-in online 48 and 24 hrs pre-departure. If any passenger arrives at the airport but hasn’t checked in online (having ignored these reminders), they will still be required to pay the airport check-in fee.”

Ryanair added that “special assistance is available at all airports” for travellers requiring support with digital passes and check-in. Full details can be found here.

EasyJet and WizzAir

For most flights, airlines such as easyJet accept digital tickets. EasyJet does not accept PDF scans displayed on phones, and all digital tickets must be presented via the free EasyJet app. Certain non-UK airports continue to require printed passes.

As of 2026, 21 airports in the easyJet network do not currently accept mobile boarding passes. If you are returning to the UK from any of these locations, you will need to print your boarding pass on paper:

• Egypt: Hurghada (HRG), Luxor (LXR), Marsa Alam (RMF), Cairo Sphinx (SPX), Sharm El Sheikh (SSH)
• Morocco: Agadir (AGA), Essaouira (ESU), Marrakesh (RAK), Rabat (RBA), Tangier (TNG)
• Turkey: Izmir (ADB), Antalya (AYT), Bodrum (BJV)
• Tunisia: Djerba (DJE), Enfidha (NBE)
• Other Regions: Aqaba, Jordan (AQJ), Belgrade, Serbia (BEG), Pristina, Kosovo (PRN), Tirana, Albania (TIA), Ivalo, Finland (IVL) and Sitia, Greece (JSH)

A handful of airports that handle Wizz Air flights also do not support mobile passes, though there are just five such destinations, as of 2026:

• Agadir (AGA)
• Marrakesh (RAK)
• Cairo Sphinx (SPX)
• Zaragoza (ZAZ)
• Tirana (TIA)

What about other major UK airlines?

For those flying with other carriers, it is best to check your airline’s website to determine whether a specific policy applies. Rules are larely the same but may vary from location to location.

• British Airways: Allows printing at home or at airport kiosks. Digital passes are available via the BA app.
• Jet2: Supports both physical and digital tickets. You can print from “Manage My Booking” or use the Jet2 app.
• TUI: Both printed and digital passes are accepted.
• Virgin Airways: Although the airline “highly recommends” digital, printed copies are accepted, and kiosk printing remains available at major hubs like London Heathrow and Manchester.

easyJet passengers are being warned they could face serious consequences if they don’t completely switch off certain electronic devices

Holidaymakers travelling with easyJet this summer are being warned that they could unknowingly fall foul of strict cabin rules unless they fully switch off a commonly used electronic device before stepping on board. The trouble is that many passengers only discover the rule once they’ve already reached the airport or are on the verge of boarding, where last-minute slip-ups could spell serious problems.

According to EasyJet, the warning relates to e-cigarettes and vaping devices, which must be carried in hand luggage only and are strictly forbidden from being stowed in hold baggage under any circumstances. The airline’s official policy states: “All electronic cigarettes and vaping devices must be carried in the cabin, re-charging is strictly prohibited and the device must be completely switched off.”

It also advises passengers to keep their devices on their person where they can be kept an eye on throughout the flight, reducing the risk of accidental activation. These rules are in place due to concerns over lithium-ion batteries, which are used to power vaping devices and are well known for posing a fire risk if they become damaged or overheat.

The UK Civil Aviation Authority categorises lithium batteries as a significant safety risk in aviation due to their potential for ‘thermal runaway’, producing intense heat and flames that are notoriously difficult to extinguish in confined spaces. The International Air Transport Association has highlighted a worldwide rise in lithium battery-related incidents, which has gone hand in hand with the increasing prevalence of portable electronic devices, prompting airlines across the globe to tighten their rules considerably.

EasyJet also warns that passengers must take precautions to prevent their vaping devices from being switched on accidentally during flights, including ensuring they are fully powered down before boarding. The airline stipulates that travellers may carry no more than two spare batteries in their hand luggage, and that these must be properly protected to prevent them from coming into contact with metal objects.

Under UK aviation rules, vaping devices must be kept in hand luggage at all times. Official government guidance states that e-cigarettes are strictly prohibited from hold baggage.

Industry experts point out that confusion often arises because rules can vary between airlines and destinations, which can leave passengers unknowingly packing the wrong items before they even reach airport security. Aviation safety specialists also warn that using or charging vaping devices while on board flights is strictly prohibited by all major airlines, with penalties ranging from confiscation to fines or even travel bans in severe cases.

As summer travel demand picks up, holidaymakers are being urged to check airline regulations before they set off to avoid delays, confiscations, or being refused entry at the boarding gate.

An important update for family holiday plans

Holidaymakers planning trips to Mediterranean hotspots are being met with an enticing development as airlines grapple with concerns over possible jet fuel shortages this summer.

Ticket prices on major routes to destinations across Spain, Italy and France have tumbled by double digits – and in some instances drastically – as carriers attempt to entice hesitant travellers into making bookings. Costs have declined by 10% or more on 15 sought-after routes, including flights from Heathrow Airport to Nice, Manchester to Palma, and Gatwick Airport to Barcelona.

In the most striking case, fares between Milan and Madrid have nosedived by as much as 44%, according to analysis by the Financial Times.

The unexpected price cuts arrive as airlines wrestle with a decline in bookings, with numerous travellers postponing holiday arrangements amid warnings that jet fuel supplies could face disruption following tensions related to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Industry insiders say consumers are holding fire, creating a high-stakes “confidence game” as airlines cut prices aggressively to fill seats before the peak summer holiday period.

One airline boss compared the present climate to the uncertainty experienced during the Covid pandemic, cautioning there remains “a lack of visibility” over how the situation will develop.

Analysis of fares between early April and early May reveals prices dropping on more than half of the busiest routes to southern Europe, particularly to seaside destinations around the Mediterranean. Significantly for families, the steepest reductions are being witnessed on traditional summer routes, with eight of the top 50 routes recording decreases of 20% or more. In contrast, only a small number of routes have experienced similarly sharp rises.

Travel industry insiders told the FT that holidaymakers were “freezing in the headlights”, resulting in them making reservations later than normal or opting for UK getaways instead.

READ MORE: UK officials issue 2026 Summer holiday fuel shortage update for families

Research indicates one in five Britons has already switched an overseas holiday for a domestic break this year, with another fifth contemplating doing likewise.

Airlines are now being compelled to boost demand through reduced fares even as fuel expenses climb and timetables are scaled back. Approximately two million seats have already been removed globally from May timetables, reflecting both elevated costs and weaker demand.

Low-cost carriers including easyJet and Wizz Air have acknowledged that passengers are making bookings later, while also seeking to reassure travellers.

EasyJet has committed not to impose fuel surcharges on existing package reservations, while British Airways has guaranteed prices will not increase after holidays are settled.

Despite the unpredictability, industry insiders emphasise the overwhelming majority of flights are still anticipated to run. Even in a worst-case scenario, only approximately 5% to 15% of flights could be axed and passengers would probably be transferred onto alternative services.

Flight FR9251 was forced to land in Toulouse with almost 200 people on board

Ryanair has issued a ‘no fly’ warning following an incident in which a plane carrying nearly 200 passengers was forced to make an emergency diversion. The disruption took place aboard a flight from London Stansted to Ibiza.

Flight FR9251 was diverted to Toulouse after two passengers turned ‘abusive towards fellow passengers’. The incident unfolded on 17 May 2025, with the case only recently being settled in court.

In an online statement headed ‘Bad behaviour won’t fly’, the budget carrier said: “On May 17 2025, two passengers became abusive towards fellow passengers on a flight from London Stansted to Ibiza and failed to comply with crew instructions, forcing over 84 passengers and six crew to divert to Toulouse.

“These two disruptive passengers were found guilty, and both received suspended sentences of up to 10 months, and received a combined penalty of over 10,000 Euros.

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“On May 7, 2026, Ryanair welcomed the decision by the Toulouse Criminal Court to convict these two unruly passengers. Ryanair has a strict zero-tolerance policy towards passenger misconduct and will continue to take action to combat unruly passenger behavior on aircraft for the benefit of the vast majority of passengers who do not disrupt flights.”

Under the Air Navigation Order 2016, a person ‘must not enter any aircraft when drunk, or be drunk in any aircraft’. It goes on to state: “A person must not, when acting as a member of the crew of any aircraft or being carried in any aircraft for the purpose of acting as a member of the crew, be under the influence of drink or a drug to such an extent as to impair their capacity so to act.”, reports Glasgow Live.

Addressing the incident on board, Ryanair’s Jade Kirwan said: “We welcome this decision by the Toulouse Criminal Court to convict these two disruptive passengers and sentence them with up to 10 months jail time and to pay a penalty of over €10,000.

“It is unacceptable that passengers – many of whom are heading away with family or friends to enjoy a relaxing summer holiday – suffer unnecessary disruption and reduced holiday time as a result of unruly passenger behaviour.

“Yet this was regrettably the case for passengers on this flight from Stansted to Ibiza in May last year, which was forced to divert to Toulouse as a result of two passenger’s disruptive behaviour.

“This conviction demonstrates just one of the many consequences that passengers who disrupt flights will face as part of Ryanair’s zero tolerance policy, and we hope this action will deter further disruptive behaviour on flights so that passengers and crew can travel in a comfortable and respectful environment.”

Plane etiquette can be a contentious topic but one flight attendant has shared five of the “basic” passenger habits she always “absolutely loves” to see people doing on board

A flight attendant has shared her top five “basic” habits she “absolutely loves” to see passengers doing while flying. Plane etiquette can be a hot topic, with many passengers holding strong opinions on what’s appropriate and polite behaviour – be it whether it’s acceptable to recline your seat or not, whether you’re obligated to swap seats if asked to by a stranger with a small child, and much more.

Playing loud audio, kicking the seat of the passenger in front of you, or ignoring the instructions of the flight crew are all seen by reasonable people as unacceptable ways to act while on board. Still, some passengers are guilty of engaging in unpleasant and unwanted behaviour.

Keen to shed some light on the positives displayed by people when travelling on a plane, one flight attendant took to TikTok with a simple video showing her working behind the scenes and sorting food and drinks out while on a flight.

In overlay text written over the top of the footage, she penned: “My top five favourite things passengers do on a plane”.

In the caption, she elaborated on this and said: “Top 5 things passengers do that I absolutely love:

• “1. When you take your headphones out as I walk up to your row

“Instant respect. You see me. I see you. We’re already besties.

• 2. When you actually pay attention during announcements

“I promise I’m not just talking to hear my own voice.

• 3. When you give a smile and a genuine ‘thank you’

“You have no idea how far that goes at 30,000 feet

• 4. When you keep your shoes on

“Especially in the lavatory. We all know that floor is not holy water.

• 5. When you treat the plane like it’s not your personal living room

“It’s someone’s workplace. And someone else’s ride home.”

She added: “It’s really that simple. Kindness + awareness + basic hygiene = elite passenger status.”

In the comments section, people were keen to share their thoughts. One person said: “Soooo actually basics and human behaviour”.

To which, another replied: “So sad so many people are selfish, rude and ignorant”.

A third said: “Blows my mind people don’t genuinely thank the crew when getting off a flight or after they bring you something”.

And a fourth commented: “When I’m getting off the plane and looking at people’s mess they leave, it makes me mad so I can only imagine how you feel”.

While the majority of TikTok users agreed with the flight attendant’s views, some did take issue with one point – the contentious issue of taking shoes off on a plane.

One TikTok user said: “I’m down for everything except shoes on at my seat. I’m so sorry I have to take them off”.

Another agreed: “Anymore than a four hour flight and the shoes are coming off and slippers going on”.

And someone else added: “I think shoes off is okay as long as you’re not barefoot and put them back on when you leave your seat. And if you travel a lot, nobody is listening to that nonsense – sorry. Everything else 1000%”.

Others stressed the importance of showing your appreciation to flight attendants.

This top destination combines a great European city break with stunning nature trails through parks, woodlands and historic districts

Summer holidays are fast approaching, yet countless travellers return home feeling utterly drained, having crammed far too much into their getaway. If you’re weary of needing a break to recover from your break, perhaps it’s time to embrace the slow travel movement.

One of the finest ways to adopt slow travel is by selecting destinations that promote rest and reconnection with the natural world, making walking holidays a superb option.

Dave Mills, Chief Commercial Officer at Iglu Cruise said: “Walking holidays offer flexibility and adventure, teaching travellers to enjoy the present moment and savour their travel experiences. You can still see the sights, but a more leisurely pace can offer a more rewarding trip.”

To assist travellers in striking the ideal balance, travel specialists from Iglu have put together a list of the finest European city breaks that also feature genuinely stunning walking trails.

They examined data from the outdoor app AllTrails to pinpoint cities boasting the greatest number of walking routes within a 15-minute radius of the city centre.

One of the finest spots to immerse yourself in nature while still making the most of your city break is Vienna in Austria.

Celebrated for its natural splendour, the city offers 250 walking trails and 12 official hiking routes, all readily accessible via public transport.

These 12 paths are conveniently numbered, making them simple to locate. For those seeking stunning vistas and a relaxing glass of wine, City Hiking Trail 1 is ideal. Beginning in Kahlenberg, this seven-mile route offers sweeping views of the Danube River.

The path meanders through expansive vineyards — some of which feature pop-up stalls where visitors can sample a glass.

Another favourite is City Hiking Trail 9, which threads through verdant woodlands and meadows before leading walkers along the boulevard in Leopoldstadt, where numerous cafés offer the perfect spot for a delightful snack or meal.

City Hiking Trail 5 is also highly regarded, situated in Floridsdorf. This route is beloved by locals and lies away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Stretching six miles, it showcases open fields and abundant wildlife, including deer.

One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “We just returned from a week in Vienna. Absolutely magical city. It looks like a city of fairy tales. I think it’s more beautiful than Paris, and Prague. Gorgeous. It’s clean and well-kept, and there is an incredible amount of beautiful architecture and art. Trip of a lifetime.”

The top 10 best city breaks for walkers

1. Berlin, Germany
2. Vienna, Austria
3. Munich, Germany
4. Oslo, Norway
5. Prague, Czech Republic
6. Stockholm, Sweden
7. Madrid, Spain
8. Zurich, Switzerland
9. Dublin, Ireland

Frequent flyer Mark Wolters has shared his airline travel secrets – and one of them involves setting your alarm for a very unsociable time

Perhaps the most frustrating aspect of air travel is discovering that your flight has been delayed and realising that you’re doomed to spend the next couple of hours in an uncomfortable plastic chair. But American travel expert Mark Wolters has some valuable tips that can save holidaymakers from the heartache of hanging around in the departure lounge.

In a new video on his Wolters World YouTube channel, Mark has a range of savvy solutions for finding the best restaurants and the cleanest loos at any airport.

He also advises, in the US at least , picking flights that depart from purely-international terminals as opposed to terminals that service both domestic and intercontinental flights.

He explains that quest for security checks will always be far longer at dual-use terminals: “For example,” Mark say, “when I go to Chicago, I know if I’m flying out of Terminal Five, the international terminal, it’s going to be a lot faster than if I’m flying out of Terminal Two, which has a lot of domestic flights.”

“It’s a good idea to look up because it could save you a time, especially if you’re running behind getting to the airport,” he advises.

Mark adds: “The airport secret I use the most when I travel is take the early morning flights if you want the least amount of headaches.”

He adds that while it might mean setting your alarm for a painfully-early time, there’s a good reason for picking those crack-of-dawn flights: “If you take that early morning flight, usually your plane landed the night before, so you don’t have the delays,” Mark explains.

“Also, when you go to check in, there’s not 3,000 extra people there. It’s just the first people flights that are there. So, it’s usually faster to get through security, faster to check in, faster to get to your gate, that takes a lot of the stress away.”

Additionally, Mark says, as the day wears on, any small delays tend to snowball and you’re much more likely to see a late evening flight delayed: “So, you’re going to travel for holidays or anything like that, don’t take the afternoon flight.

“Get up in the morning… suck it up, take that early morning flight so you have less chance for problems.”

Another one of Mark’s airport secrets is to try to use the loos nearest to the baggage reclaim, because they’re likely to be the cleanest and most pleasant to use.

He explains: “Think about it. When people get off the plane, they want to go to the bathroom right away. So, those bathrooms in the terminals by the busy gates, those get used a lot more than the other ones.

“All of them get cleaned, but the ones that aren’t used as much, they tend to they tend to stay cleaner longer. At baggage claim, no one’s thinking ‘I want to go to the bathroom’. They’re thinking, I want my luggage and I want to go home.’ So that would be a cleaner one to use.”

These fees are legally required, and few people are exempt from paying up

Holidaymakers planning a trip abroad in 2026 should ensure they set aside funds for an additional levy that visitors are anticipated to pay when travelling to parts of Europe. Certain popular cities could hit travellers with an extra €16 per night during their stay.

Dozens of destinations across the globe already impose a ‘tourist tax’ to help maintain the areas that both residents and visitors enjoy. These charges are typically applied on a nightly per-person basis, or as a percentage of the overall accommodation costs.

Such taxes are generally settled at check-in or checkout directly with the accommodation provider. The majority of tourists are legally required to pay these charges (children and those with disabilities are ordinarily exempt) or risk having their hotel reservations cancelled.

Consumer group Which? has recently published a summary of sought-after holiday destinations that people commonly flock to throughout the summer months. Some opt for short city breaks, while others may spend longer periods at holiday resorts, but most will need to factor in an arrival tax when budgeting.

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Spain and Portugal have charges ranging from €2 to €25, while certain locations in France could levy up to €16 per night at some accommodation providers. Italy remains a firm favourite for those seeking a quick city break, yet hotels in some areas could charge as much as €10 per night, reports the Mirror.

Popular EU cities and what they charge in tourist taxes: From July 2026, tourists visiting Edinburgh, Scotland, will be required to pay a levy of “5% of the cost of the accommodation of [the] first five nights’ stay”. Wales is set to follow in 2027 with a charge of £1.30 “per night” in areas where local councils opt to bring it in.

While it’s not officially classed as a ‘tourist tax’, UK visitors will need to fork out a £17 visa fee from late 2026 to enter 30 European countries. This would come on top of any local tourist levies.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a compulsory digital travel authorisation launching in late 2026 for visa-exempt nationals (including UK, US, Canada, Australia) visiting 30 European countries. The ETIAS is a one-off, separate payment needed to enter the Schengen Area of Europe. Once purchased, it remains valid for three years. The countries that will require this ‘e-visa’ include:

A Jet2 survey has shown a shift in how people are booking their holidays amid concerns over jet fuel supplies

Jet2 has revealed that passengers are making a major change to how they book holidays amid concern over major jet fuel problems this year due to teh Middle East Crisis. As the Middle East crisis deepens, mounting concerns suggest Britain could face a jet fuel shortage that may disrupt holiday flights.

Goldman Sachs has cautioned that Britain is the country “most exposed” to jet fuel shortages triggered by the Iran conflict, stoking fears of further flight cancellations and ruined summer getaways. Analysts at one of the world’s largest investment banks warned that the UK is heavily dependent on imports routed through the closed Strait of Hormuz, with “critically low levels” of supplies and inadequate refining capabilities.

And personal finance expert Martin Lewis has spoken out about the issue – highlighting people who book their flights and hotels separately might not get compensation if flights are cancelled. Jet2 said package holidays are now the top choice for travellers, with 51% opting for this booking method – a 5% rise since February. During the same timeframe, those preferring to book through separate providers has fallen by six percentage points to 20%, while ‘accommodation only’ bookings have plummeted to just 2%.

Jet2 said the results showed main attractions of package holidays have remained consistent, with value (36%) and convenience (36%) leading the way. However, the appeal of ‘added security with one provider, ATOL/ABTA protection’ has climbed by four percentage points since February to reach 26%, according to the survey.

This protection ensures customers are safeguarded against any alterations to their bookings, including the possibility of refunds should travel plans be scrapped, while guaranteeing holidays meet the highest standards for customer service, booking amendments, and health and safety.

READ MORE: Jet2, easyJet, Jet2, TUI passengers with flights booked warned of ’14 day rule’ changeREAD MORE: TV travel expert Simon Calder gives Spain, Portugal, Italy summer rule update

Jet2 has pledged not to impose surcharges on any confirmed flights or holidays to offset rising costs, such as jet fuel, giving customers peace of mind that the price they book is the final price they’ll pay.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2, commented: “Consumers want assurance during times of uncertainty and package holidays provide that assurance. On top of all the protection that our package holidays guarantee, Jet2 is well known as being a consumer champion that goes above and beyond to look after customers. Ahead of a busy summer season, this means new and existing customers know that their well-deserved holidays are in the very best hands with us, and we are very excited about welcoming everyone onboard and taking them on their breaks.”

As millions of Jet2 customers gear up for a bustling summer season, the firm has confirmed it intends to run its scheduled services as planned.

Martin Lewis gave a warning for anyone who has already booked their holiday for this summer. In an update the personal finance guru gave an alert to people who have already paid for breaks from the main holiday firms and airlines like TUI, Jet2, Ryanair, Wizz, easyJet and British Airways.

During his Money Show Live on ITV, the financial expert responded to an audience member who asked: ‘If my flight’s cancelled due to no jet fuel will you definitely receive all your money back even for your hotel booking as well.’

Mr Lewis made clear that travellers would lose their hotel booking costs if they had arranged accommodation independently from flights booked with airlines such as Jet2, TUI, Wizz, Ryanair or easyJet – as they would not be protected under consumer regulations.

He stated: “No. And I think this is what people need to be very aware of. If you booked a package holiday where you booked everything in one, then under the package holiday regulations and rules and protections generally if your flight went you would get everything back.”

He went on to say: “And so actually at the moment package holidays give you a certain level of extra security that you wouldn’t get if you did a DIY booking where you bought your hotel and flight separately.” The reason behind this, he explained, is that the hotel booking itself remains valid: “Because the point is if you lose your flight and you’ve DIY booked, there’s nothing wrong with your hotel.

“The issue is you can’t get there. Your hotel is still there. It’s not faulty. It’s not cancelling. So, you don’t have those consumer rights.” If the hotel hasn’t done anything wrong, then guests might look at how they’ve made their booking – but that route offers no solution either.

He said: “So, you would then say, ‘What about using a credit card or debit card protection?’ It won’t work because there’s nothing faulty. And that’s just giving you the same replica rights that you would have with the retailer.”

Meanwhile, holiday giant TUI has issued a direct message to those with May bookings. TUI Managing Director Neil Swanson in a message on Facebook, pledged that May half-term flights would proceed as scheduled: “We know you may be feeling a little uneasy after recent headlines, and we want to reassure anyone travelling over May half term that they can look forward to their holiday with confidence with TUI. We have good visibility on fuel supplies and are operating our holiday programme as planned, with no flights being cancelled due to fuel shortages.

“Our careful planning across fuel, flying and hotel capacity means we’re able to continue offering great value and stable prices – with no fuel surcharges added by TUI. The price you see is the price you pay, and all TUI package holidays are ABTA & ATOL protected, giving peace of mind from booking right through to returning home.”

On TUI’s Facebook page, holidaymakers reported seeing significant price hikes. Marie said: “We booked our August holiday nearly 18 months ago and paid 5.2K. Just checked it to book now and it’s 6.7K. Glad we booked so far in advance. Already booked August 2027 holiday for same price as we paid this year.”

Lynn replied: “Marie Tomes we’re the exact same. Been going to the same hotel for 7yrs. They renegotiated the contract last year. For us to book for next year its going to be nearly 1k each more for our 2weeks. We’re going to make the most of this year as our last visit.”

One concerned traveller, Rno, raised worries about upcoming summer trips: “What about those who have already booked a hotel and flight for the entire month of August? I have a booking for my family and I’m worried Note that the plane is a TUI and the flight is to Egypt.”

TUI responded: “Hi there. We’re monitoring the situation closely. Right now, we don’t expect any disruption to flights or holidays, but we’ll keep this under review and contact customers directly if anything changes that affects their booking. “

Meanwhile, Jet2 revealed it too is witnessing a notable shift in booking behaviour amongst travellers. Experts such as Martin Lewis have urged travellers to book holidays as a package deal, warning that purchasing flights and accommodation separately could leave them without full compensation should anything go awry.