Atlantic

May 13 (UPI) — Ten suspected hantavirus patients are being flown from the British islands of St. Helena and Ascension in the South Atlantic back to the United Kingdom to complete their self-isolation at a former COVID-19 facility, the country’s main infectious diseases agency said.

The eight passengers and two crew from the hantavirus-hit Hondius cruise ship are part of a program to relocate “some contacts who are already isolating to places where they can safely self-isolate with access to appropriate specialist medical services,” the U.K. Health Security Agency said in a news release on Tuesday.

“England’s National Health Service high consequence infectious disease network is well equipped to respond if they become unwell. Currently none of these contacts are symptomatic and this is precautionary to support communities in U.K. overseas territories,” the agency said.

The patients being flown to Britain all left the MV Hondius when it stopped in St. Helena on April 24, with the ship going on to Cape Verde, where it was refused permission to dock, before finally disembarking on Tenerife on Sunday.

UKHSA did not say where the patients would be taken on arrival in Britain, but Arrowe Park Hospital in northwestern England, where at least 20 other patients from the Hondius are currently quarantined, was the most likely destination. The hospital has a specialist isolation wing and was a designated quarantine facility during the pandemic in 2020.

The agency said plans were underway “where it is safe and possible” to discharge the 20 existing Arrowe Park patients, 18 Britons, a German citizen and a Japanese national, after completing a three-day quarantine.

Each patient assessed as fit to safely serve out a 45-day isolation period at home will receive a tailored support package with daily monitoring from health protection teams across the country until they receive the all-clear, said UKHSA.

“We are grateful to the passengers for their cooperation and patience in what we appreciate has been a very unsettling period for all involved. As this first assessment period concludes, our priority remains to ensure everyone is safe and well supported, wherever they complete their isolation. Our teams will continue to be there for all of the affected individuals every step of the way,” said the agency’s chief scientific officer, Professor Robin May.

On Saturday, the British military conducted an airdrop of medics and four tons of oxygen and other medical supplies on Tristan da Cunha, another island in the St. Helena and Ascension Island British Overseas Territory, to treat a hantavirus patient who left the Hondius when it stopped there in mid-April.

The patient is a resident of Tristan da Cunha, population 220, one of the most remote places on Earth, 1,510 miles southwest of St. Helena and 1,750 miles west of Cape Town, which has no airstrip and very limited medical facilities.

Three of six passengers who fell ill from suspected rodent-transmitted virus have died, and one is in intensive care, the WHO says.

Three people have died on a cruise ship in the Atlantic, with at least one confirmed to have suffered from hantavirus, a rare disease transmitted to humans from rodents.

Health authorities are now investigating a suspected outbreak of the virus on the MV Hondius, which is sailing from Ushuaia in Argentina to Cape Verde.

In a statement on Sunday, the World Health Organization said that one case had been confirmed and at least five other passengers were suspected of being infected.

“Of the six affected individuals, three have died, and one is currently in intensive care in South Africa,” WHO said in a statement.

“Detailed investigations are ongoing, including further laboratory testing and epidemiological investigations. Medical care and support are being provided to passengers and crew. Sequencing of the virus is also ongoing.”

WHO added that it was “facilitating coordination” between countries to evacuate the two other passengers showing symptoms of the infection.

Hantavirus, a rare disease transmitted to humans through the droppings or urine of infected rodents, can be fatal in severe cases and cause hemorrhagic fever.

Infected couple among casualties

South Africa’s National Department of Health said earlier on Sunday that there had been an outbreak of a “severe acute respiratory illness”, which had killed at least two people, and that a third person was in intensive care in Johannesburg, according to the AFP news agency.

The ministry’s spokesperson, Foster Mohale, confirmed that the patient being treated in Johannesburg tested positive for hantavirus.

A 70-year-old was the first to develop symptoms. He died on the ship, with his body now being held on the island of Saint Helena, a British territory in the South Atlantic, the spokesman said.

The patient’s 69-year-old wife also fell sick and was evacuated to South Africa, where she died in a Johannesburg hospital, he added.

Mohale told AFP that authorities have not confirmed the nationalities of the deceased. But the person in intensive care was reported by AFP to be a 69-year-old Briton.

AS THE fuel crisis continues to put pressure on airlines, it can be hard to know what it means for your upcoming flight.

For some airlines, rising fuel costs are being offset by raising the price of flight fares such as Virgin Atlantic, with British Airways also recently warning of flight fare increases.

Follow The Sun’s award-winning travel team on Instagram and Tiktok for top holiday tips and inspiration @thesuntravel.

Yet there are also a number of airlines that have vowed not to increase costs for their passengers. Here’s a full rundown of the UK airlines that have not changed their prices:

Jet2

Currently, Jet2 has not increased the prices of its flights and holidays due to rising jet fuel costs, and both holidays and flights with the company remain unaffected.

A Jet2 spokesperson told Sun Travel: “We remain in continual dialogue with our fuel suppliers, as is standard practice.

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“Based on the conversations we have been having, we see no reason not to look forward to operating our scheduled programme of flights and holidays as normal.”

Jet2 boss Steve Heapy added: “Holidaymakers should have every right to book their hard-earned break in the sun, without worrying about being hit with additional costs, and they can have that complete assurance when they book a flight or holiday with Jet2.

“As a result of today’s announcement, customers booking with Jet2 know that they are locking in their price without additional cost surprises later and we strongly believe that is the right thing to do by them.”

EasyJet

EasyJet is not increasing flight prices, nor is the airline currently impacted by the fuel crisis.

A spokesperson told Sun Travel that passengers would not “suddenly face unexpected fees added to their bookings to cover fluctuating commodity costs”.

They added that there were “no plans to make any changes to our flying schedule”.

TUI

TUI holidays are not be increasing prices to cover fuel costs and are currently not impacted by the fuel crisis.

A TUI spokesperson told Sun Travel: “We’re closely monitoring the developing situation in the Middle East and its potential impact on global aviation fuel supplies.

“At present, we’re not anticipating disruption to our flight schedules or holiday programmes from fuel shortages.”

Ryanair

Europe‘s biggest airline has not increased costs for passengers and has not cancelled any flights due to the fuel crisis yet.

This week, the airline’s CEO Michael O’Leary said that he was committed to not implementing price increases or adding fuel surcharges to flight fares.

However, O’Leary has previously warned that it could cancel flights in the future, saying: “We don’t expect any disruption until early May, but if the war continues, we do run the risk of supply disruptions in Europe in May and June, and we hope the war will finish sooner than that and the risk to supply will be eliminated.”

Kuoni

When it comes to holiday package firm Kuoni – which specialises in tailor-made packages – they confirmed to MoneySavingExpert that no ‘holiday surcharge’ will be added to bookings.

Loveholidays

Similarly, Loveholidays – which offers packages to sunshine destinations and city breaks – also confirmed to MoneySavingExpert that there would be no additional charges on bookings.

AIRLINES around the world have been forced to cancel flights due to the ongoing Iran war.

Thousands of holidaymakers have been affected by the conflict, which has seen the cost of jet fuel spiral due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Not only has this seen prices go up by the blocking of the world’s busiest trade route, but it has also sparked fears of shortages.

Foreign airlines including United, Cathay, Lufthansa and Scandinavian Airlines are just some that have said they are cancelling flights.

But nervous Brits will be wondering if their own holidays will be affected.

Airlines UK, which represents a number of carriers, including BA, Virgin, easyJet, Jet2 and Ryanair, are calling on the government for support to protect flights and holidays.

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This would include temporary use of fuel type Jet A (not currently allowed in the UK) as well as relaxing the strict airport slot rules that would see airlines lose them if they don’t operate flights.

Easing night flight bans and “relieving the burden of Air Passenger Duty” have also been put forward.

In the mean time, we’ve gone to all the top UK airlines and tour operators to get their latest update.

Jet2

Jet2 – the UK’s biggest tour operator – said that flights and holidays remain unaffected at the moment.

A Jet2 spokesperson told us: “We remain in continual dialogue with our fuel suppliers, as is standard practice.

“Based on the conversations we have been having, we see no reason not to look forward to operating our scheduled programme of flights and holidays as normal.

“We understand that our customers work and save very hard for their holidays, and we are looking forward to making sure that they enjoy their award-winning Jet2holidays.”

TUI

TUI holidays have not been affected or cancelled by the fuel crisis.

A TUI spokesperson told Sun Travel: “We’re closely monitoring the developing situation in the Middle East and its potential impact on global aviation fuel supplies.

“At present, we’re not anticipating disruption to our flight schedules or holiday programmes from fuel shortages.”

easyJet

EasyJet flights are not currently affected by the fuel crisis.

A spokesperson told Sun Travel that there was ” no disruption to flights” and “no plans to make any changes to our flying schedule”.

However, earlier this week, easyJet CEO for Spain and Portugal said that it was difficult to see” what would happen in a few weeks time.

Javier Gándara told local media: “If there are problems in other countries, that ends up affecting flights to Spain. No one will be immune to potential supply problems.”

Ryanair

The budget Irish airline has not cancelled flights caused by the fuel crisis.

However, Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary previously warned that if it continues, flight cancellations were likely.

He said earlier this month: “We don’t expect any disruption until early May, but if the war continues, we do run the risk of supply disruptions in Europe in May and June, and we hope the war will finish sooner than that and the risk to supply will be eliminated.”

This is because the airline currently hedges (pays a set price) for 80 per cent of fuel, not but the remaining 20 per cent.

Sun Travel has contacted Ryanair for comment.

British Airways

British Airways has not cancelled any flights due to the jet fuel crisis.

The only current flight changes are due to the ongoing war affecting destination in the Middle East.

This includes a reduction in daily flights to Dubai (from three to one) as well as reductions across Doha and Riyadh. Flights to Jeddah are being permanently suspended from April 24.

A British Airways spokesperson told us: “Due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East, we have made further changes to our flying schedule to provide greater clarity for our customers.

“We’re keeping the situation under constant review and are directly in touch with affected customers to offer them a range of options.”

“We will continue to assess and introduce further flying where possible.”

Virgin Atlantic

When the war first broke out in Iran, Virgin Atlantic was also affected by the closure of airports in the Middle East, which saw some cancellations.

This also saw the ending of their London to Riyadh route just a year after launching.

However, the airline has confirmed that the flying programme is “up to date and operating as normal”.

They also added that they were in touch with suppliers and would monitor the situations but that there was “no immediate risk to supply on routes”.

Stressing about your next flight with a child in-tow? These airlines offer extras to make the onboard experience a lot more fun and engaging for them, but many parents aren’t aware of these perks

Let’s face it, flying with kids is never easy, whether it’s an unsettled baby, an active toddler, or a bored teenager. But some airlines do offer a more pleasant onboard experience to start your family holiday.

Lots of airlines offer extra perks and freebies for those travelling with kids, even in economy class, although some parents may not be aware of them. Long-haul flights especially will often cater for the younger crowd with their own onboard entertainment, meals, or even amenity kits.

Here are some freebies you could pick up if you travel with your child this summer.

TUI

On TUI’s short-haul services there are a few perks for parents travelling with kids. Parents can check their car seat and pushchair into the hold for no extra charge, or bring it onboard if it’s under a certain size. Families flying with young kids also get priority boarding on their planes.

On longer haul services, passengers get complimentary food and drinks, and guests between the ages of two and 12 will be served a kids’ meal. Children also get free headsets so they can enjoy the kid-friendly entertainment available on their seatback, and each child gets an age-appropriate activity pack as they board, which includes lots of holiday-themed fun to help pass the time.

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British Airways (BA)

Kids flying on BA with their parents on flights over three hours can enjoy complimentary Skyflyers activity packs including their own eye mask and socks, crayons, and a postcard for them to send home. These packs are available at the Family and Club World check-in zones at Heathrow Terminal 5, Gatwick and London City if you ask a member of staff.

Onboard, children’s meals are available and can be ordered in advance with a choice of menu options. Kids’ snack boxes are also available to buy on shorter flights. Carrycots are provided free of charge for little ones who need a nap, and car seats and pushchairs can be checked in free for those bringing infants along.

For longer flights, kids can peruse the seatback entertainment on offer, which includes lots of kid-friendly shows and movies to help pass the time.

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic offers complimentary meals, snacks, and drinks on all classes across its services. If you’re travelling with a child, you can log into your booking up to 24-hours before departure and opt for a kids’ meal. These meals are perfectly portioned for younger passengers and come with a side of fruit and a sweet treat.

At the gate, kids get an amenity pack, regardless of which class they are in. These are in a distinctive red drawstring bag and usually feature a popping toy, colouring book, sunglasses, and some other little surprises.

READ MORE: Strict new hand luggage rule comes into force today affecting at least 580,000 BritsREAD MORE: Another major airline warns flights could soon be grounded because of fuel crisis

Emirates

Kids flying on Emirates enjoy a free amenity kit, and there are separate kits for 0-2 years, 3-6 years, and 7-12 years to ensure they are well-entertained on the plane. The kits come in bags emblazoned with colourful pictures from different Emirates destinations, and inside they contain cuddly toys, activities, and collectibles.

Even the youngest passengers get their own bag. Emirates baby and infant kits include handy items like baby wipes, cream, and a reusable changing mat, as well as a soft plush toy that can be attached to the seatback and a cosy blanket for nap time.

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

FBI Director Kash Patel sued the Atlantic magazine for $250 million on Monday, claiming an article that talked about his alleged excessive drinking was false and a “malicious hit piece.”

The Atlantic, in response, said it stood by its reporting and would vigorously defend against the “meritless lawsuit.”

In the article, posted on the magazine’s website on Friday, author Sarah Fitzpatrick said Patel is deeply concerned about losing his job and that “he has good reasons to think so — including some having to do with what witnesses described to me as bouts of excessive drinking.”

His behavior, including “both conspicuous inebriation and unexplained absences,” has alarmed officials at the FBI and Department of Justice, the Atlantic said. Fitzpatrick was named as a defendant in the lawsuit.

Patel, in the lawsuit filed in district court in Washington, denied the allegations of his behavior and criticized the magazine for relying on anonymous sources. Fitzpatrick wrote that she interviewed more than two dozen people and granted them anonymity to “discuss sensitive information and private conversations.”

“Defendants cannot evade responsibility for their malicious lies by hiding behind sham sources,” the lawsuit said.

Bauder writes for the Associated Press.

Flying is about to feel very different for travellers with Virgin Atlantic thanks to a major change set to transform how passengers spend hours in the air

Passengers flying with Virgin Atlantic will start to notice a major change the moment they board. The airline has confirmed it will begin rolling out a new onboard service that promises to change the in-flight experience entirely.

Installation of Starlink will begin on its Airbus A350 aircraft from May 2026, Virgin Atlantic has announced. It says the new amenity will deliver high-speed, low-latency internet from take-off to the moment you land – but there’s a catch.

It will be available to passengers completely free of charge as part of their journey. This means they can scroll social media, stream TV shows or films, and even make calls or send messages while cruising at 30,000ft.

The first flight to feature the service is expected to depart in early May on route VS153 from London Heathrow to New York JFK. Virgin Atlantic says this marks the beginning of a wider rollout across its long-haul fleet.

All Airbus A350 aircraft are expected to be equipped by early summer, according to the airline. Installation will then expand to Boeing 787 planes later in 2026, reaching around two-thirds of the fleet by the end of the year.

The remaining Airbus A330neo aircraft are set to follow, with full fleet coverage expected by 2027. According to Starlink, its low-Earth-orbit satellite network is designed to deliver faster and more reliable internet, even over remote areas like oceans.

Unlike traditional in-flight Wi-Fi, which relies on older satellite systems, Starlink offers significantly lower latency and higher speeds. According to Ookla, low-Earth-orbit satellite technology can deliver speeds comparable to fixed broadband in some cases.

Virgin Atlantic first announced the partnership in July 2025, becoming the first UK airline to commit to free, fleet-wide Starlink connectivity. The airline says Flying Club members will be able to access the service at no extra cost.

Passengers will be able to stream TV shows, make video calls and browse the internet on multiple devices simultaneously. According to International Air Transport Association, demand for onboard connectivity has surged in recent years, with more travellers expecting seamless internet access in the air.

Juha Järvinen, Chief Customer Officer at Virgin Atlantic, said: “We were the first UK airline to announce free, fleet-wide Starlink Wi-Fi, and from May, we’re starting to deliver it for our customers.” He added that the airline aims to achieve full connectivity across its fleet by 2027.

He said the move is part of a wider push to create a “brilliantly connected experience” for passengers. The airline believes the upgrade will allow customers to use their flight time more flexibly, whether for work or leisure.

Industry experts say reliable Wi-Fi is becoming a standard expectation rather than a luxury. According to research from Inmarsat, a majority of airline passengers consider onboard internet a key factor when choosing flights.

Virgin Atlantic’s move is seen as a major step forward in meeting that demand. With rollout beginning in just weeks, passengers could soon experience a new era of fully connected air travel.