A passenger revealed that the tip ‘really helped’ when they encountered a common travel problem
Plane passengers can benefit from the travel tip (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
Passengers have been advised to pack an extra item in their hold luggage before travelling. The ‘helpful’ travel tip was shared by an airline passenger who swears by the method. The recommendation was shared on Reddit’s r/airport forum. Sharing a question for social media users, a travel fan asked: “What are the best airport tips?”
The post read: “My trick is to always carry an empty bottle. After passing through security at every airport, I look for a drinking fountain. Most airports have a couple of them. I discovered a nice website called Water at Airport. If I can’t find one, I just do a quick search on the website.
“This is just a recommendation. Let me know if you have any other trips to the airport. I’m planning some new trips and will definitely need them!” In response, passengers shared several recommendations, including a tip that could be useful for anyone flying with hold luggage.
A traveller wrote: “I might be old school, but I not only tag my bag on the outside but I also put my name and address identification on the inside.” They explained: “This really became helpful when my bag was delayed and then the exterior luggage tag somehow got ripped off.
“I was able to describe the bag, its contents, as well as the additional tag information in the bag – it really helped! This can be as simple as writing your name, address and phone number on a piece of paper and then putting it inside a Ziploc bag and then putting it somewhere inside your checked luggage.”
Most airlines recommend that passengers include a label inside and outside their luggage. While the inner label is not often needed, it could be helpful if the exterior label falls off.
For instance, easyJet advises customers to add a luggage label to their bags and leave contact information inside the luggage. Recommending the idea to passengers, easyJet’s website says: “Make sure your bags stand out from the crowd on the carousel!
“We advise attaching something noticeable and unique to your luggage like a colourful ribbon, eye-catching sticker or personalised tag. This will make it easier for you to spot your luggage on the carousel at arrivals and avoid any confusion with similar bags.
“We also recommend adding a label to your luggage with your name and contact details such as address, email and phone number and put a copy of these details inside your bag too! This would really help us reunite you with your bag in the unlikely event of the exterior tags falling off.”
British Airways offers similar advice. The airline’s website says: “Label your bags inside and out with your name, destination address, email address and mobile number.”
Airports at Brit holiday hotspots including Spain, France and Portugal have reported severe delays and long queues – some as long as three-and-a-half hours at peak times
11:27, 30 May 2026Updated 11:27, 30 May 2026
Recent airport delays appear linked to the new EES border control system(Image: ROBERT GHEMENT/EPA/Shutterstock)
British tourists are being advised to allow more time at airports across Europe before travelling home because of major delays caused by biometric checks.
Wizz Air boss Yvonne Moynihan warned holidaymakers returning home from an EU destination that they should arrive at the airport three hours before their flights are due to depart amid concerns about the new security procedures.
The EU entry-exit system (EES) has now replaced passport stamps with a digital registration, involving biometric checks carried out on entry and exit for all non-EU citizens.
The EES has been gradually introduced across Europe since October last year but came into full force last month. Since then, tourists have reported huge delays at border control,.
Just last week, French police temporarily lifted the EES checks at the Dover port to free thousands of tourists trapped in long delays in the scorching heat.
Ms Moynihan told the BBC: “Because there is another passport check … that’s where we see that people have, again, experienced longer waiting times than anticipated.”
She said that while usual advice is to arrive at the airport two hours before a flight, “in these circumstances, we are advising three hours”.
The new measures have been “fragmented across Europe”, she continued, with some EU countries recording “seamless travel” while in extremes, there have been long queues and delays at “usual hotspots such as Spain, Portugal, France”.
“When you land in the destination airport, there might be queues, so you should bring a portable charger or water,” Moynihan said her airline is advising in general to any British customers travelling from an EU destination.
For those with connecting flights, she advised planning for several hours.
Her comments come as the European airports association ACI Europe warned queues have been reaching an eye-watering three-and-a-half hours in peak traffic times, based on its survey conducted across 45 airports in 20 EU states on May 26.
“Airports which previously did not report excessive waiting times are now doing so despite the extensive use of partial suspension of EES,” it said in a statement to Travel Weekly.
However, the European Commission told the BBC that the EES was not the only factor that can cause delays at the border, stating information may only take around a minute to register.
Manston Airport closed in 2014 but is set to open in the next four yearsCredit: AlamyThe sites was once an RAF base and is currently undergoing public consultationCredit: Times Media Ltd
Three years ago, Manston Airport was bought by RiverOak Strategic Partners (RSP) who revealed plans to reopen it for around £750million.
The initial timeline was to open the airport in 2025, but this has been pushed back to 2029.
RSP said that the reason for the delays have been due to rising construction costs and the financial market.
Currently, the planning process of reopening the airport is entering its third stage.
Anyone living the local area of Ramsgate and Herne Bay – which are the towns located at either end of the airport’s runway have a first look at where aircraft will be seen and heard if the site reopens.
The documents were published on March 16, with the public given until June 22, 2026 to comment.
On social media it appears there has been a lot of support to open the airport once again.
One commented on Facebook said: “It would be nice to have an airport on our doorstep even if it was for short trips instead of going up to London same as the Eurostar.”
Tony Freudmann, Director at RiverOak Strategic Partners said: “This consultation is an important step in our ambitions to reopen Manston Airport, representing a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver new runway capacity to support the UK air cargo market and to transform the economic landscape in East Kent.
“We know Manston holds a special place in the area’s history, we would encourage people to find out more about our proposal and provide any feedback they might have to help shape our plans.”
The airport once operated passenger flights to EuropeCredit: Wikipedia
While the aim is to reopen the airport in 2029, this will be for cargo aircraft only.
When fully open, it’s believed that Manston Airport could handle around a million tonnes of freight a year.
There is still the chance that the airport will operate passenger planes later on.
No airlines have expressed interest yet, Mr Freudman said the likes of Jet2 and TUI prefer “regional airports like this one”.
The airfield was previously used as a regional hub to fly Brits abroad from the 1960s.
Holidaymakers could snap up bargain return flights from as low as £30 to the most popular holiday hotspots thanks to a little-known TUI Airways booking trick. The ‘insider trick’, revealed by TUI UK’s Commercial Director Chris Logan, reveals how travellers can snap up last-minute flights weeks before departure which include bargain breaks across Europe and even long-haul escapes for a fraction of the usual price.
On TUI’s dedicated ‘ Cheap Flights ’ page Brits can find seats on return routes which are regularly released at heavily reduced prices in the weeks and months leading up to departure. “If you’ve got a bit of flexibility, this is one of the easiest ways to find a great-value getaway. It’s not something everyone knows about, but checking our flights page regularly can uncover some genuinely low fares, especially closer to departure as we look to fill remaining seats,” said Chris Logan.
“We’re talking everything from quick European breaks to long-haul trips across the Caribbean, Mexico and Thailand. Because TUI Airways flies from 22 airports across the UK, it makes it easy to pick a date, pack a bag and fly from your closest regional airport.”
The best deals tend to be snapped up by those who can be flexible on dates and airports, with flights leaving from more than 22 UK airports. And it’s not just quick getaways. The deals can stretch from short breaks to two-week holidays or even longer.
Chris added: “For customers who don’t mind when or where they go, it can be a really simple way to save money on flights and land some of the best-value fares”.
Right now, Brits can find deals such as:
Seven nights in Palma de Mallorca with return flights from London Gatwick from £30 per person (1 July to 8 July)
Seven nights in Ibiza with return flights from London Stansted from £63 per person (1 July to 8 July)
Seven nights in Agadir, Morocco with return flights from Newcastle from £66 per person (8 June to 15 June)
Seven nights in Tenerife with return flights from London Gatwick from £82 per person (6 June July to 13 July)
14 nights in Cancun, Mexico with return flights from Manchester from £350 per person (7 June to 21 June)
14 nights in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic with return flights Manchester from £350 per person (6 June to 20 June)
Travellers looking to lock in value a little further ahead can also take advantage of TUI’s additional current flight offer. On TUI Airways bookings departing between July 2026 and April 2027, customers can receive £40 off per person which will be already applied to the flight price, offering even more ways to bring down the cost of a getaway.
Insiders at TUI have revealed a little-known booking trick that most Brits don’t know about, and it could help you save money on flights and even get returns from £30
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The booking trick could help you find return flights from £30(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
If you’re always on the lookout for cheap holiday deals, then you may want to take note of a little-known TUI trick revealed by insiders at the holiday giant.
In fact, according to TUI UK’s Commercial Director Chris Logan, it could help you snap up return flights from £30 to a number of holiday hotspots including Spain, Greece, Portugal and Turkey.
You’ll need to book just a few weeks before departure – and according to Chris it can work on long-haul holidays like the Caribbean, Mexico and Thailand too.
According to TUI insiders, the holiday giant’s dedicated ‘Cheap Flights‘ page is where the firm will release flights that have been heavily reduced. This can be because of a number of factors, such as if a plane isn’t full and the airline is trying to sell the remaining seats.
Chris explained: “If you’ve got a bit of flexibility, this is one of the easiest ways to find a great-value getaway. It’s not something everyone knows about, but checking our flights page regularly can uncover some genuinely low fares, especially closer to departure as we look to fill remaining seats.”
“We’re talking everything from quick European breaks to long-haul trips across the Caribbean, Mexico and Thailand. Because TUI Airways flies from 22 airports across the UK, it makes it easy to pick a date, pack a bag and fly from your closest regional airport.”
Obviously it only works if you can be a little flexible on your dates, and even destination; but given the summer holidays stretch over a six-week window, it could mean you could bag some tempting deals during the peak seasons too.
Chris added: “For customers who don’t mind when or where they go, it can be a really simple way to save money on flights and land some of the best-value fares”.
Unsurprisingly, the cheapest fares from £30 tend to fall outside of the school holiday dates, for example for flights in June or early July. However, if you’re tied to term time, you could still bag cheaper flights and potentially save on your holiday during the busier periods.
Of course the TUI hack isn’t the only way you could find some tempting holiday bargains. For example, Skyscanner has an ‘anywhere’ feature that lets you pick some dates, and then it simply shows you all of the cheap flight deals it can find for that window, which can be really useful if you’re not too set on a specific destination.
Meanwhile, easyJet has an ‘Inspire me’ tool where again you can enter the rough window you’d like to travel, the type of holiday you’re after (for example city break or beach holiday), and then it will show you some of the cheapest flights on offer to a number of destinations.
Have you been on an amazing holiday after finding an incredible deal? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
THE best beaches in Europe have been revealed and the number one spot is a beautiful escape with super cheap flights.
Dubbed one of Portugal’s ‘Sunset Beaches’, Monte Clérigo sits in the Algarve region, but is much quieter than other crowded resorts.
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Monte Clerigo Beach has been declared the best in EuropeCredit: AlamyIt has sweeping golden sands and is much lesser-known then other Algarve resortsCredit: Alamy
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The Algarve draws in millions of Brits every year wanting to explore its golden sand beaches and bask in its glorious sunshine.
It’s most popular resorts include Albufeira, Vilamoura and Alvor – but that’s not where you’ll find the best beach.
Tucked away on the western coast is Praia de Monte Clérigo which has just been declared the best beach in all of Europe by European Best Destinations.
Beaches across Europe are assessed on aspects like natural beauty to water quality, family-friendliness, available activities, accommodation and overall atmosphere.
The 30 highest-rated beaches are then submitted to an international panel of travellers and tourism enthusiasts who vote to find the ‘Best Beaches in Europe 2026′.
Monte Clérigo Beach was described the beach as having ‘golden cliffs’ and ‘wild Atlantic landscapes’.
The ‘wildness’ of the coastal spot comes from the fact that it forms part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park where there’s lots of greenery and plenty of hiking routes.
The beach also has fine sand, low-tide rock pools, is ideal for surfing, and its nearby town of Aljezur is filled with colourful cottages some of which sit up on the cliffside.
Monte Clérigo is considered one of Portugal’s best ‘Sunset Beaches’ too.
Monte Clérigo is considered one of Portugal’s best ‘Sunset BeachesCredit: Alamy
Thanks to its position on the western coast, beachgoers have a clear view of the sun as it sets looking like it sinks into the ocean.
One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: “Stunning beach on rugged coastline. Visited several times. Away from hectic tourist resorts. This beach is beautiful. It’s well worth waiting for some sunset photos!”
Another added: “I discovered another beautiful beach on the southwest coast of Portugal. Pristine and unspoiled is how I’d describe the place.”
Right on the sands is Restaurant O Sargo which has live music every Friday night and is popular with locals and visitors who enjoy fresh seafood and watch the sunset in the evening.
The beach is easily reachable from the UK – you could be there in five hoursCredit: Alamy
Faro International Airport is an hour and a half drive away from the beach, so from the UK you could be sunbathing on the beach in under five hours.
One-way flights are as little as £13.99 in June flying from London Luton with Wizz Air.
Other beaches that secured a spot on the list were Voutoumi Beach in Antipaxos which came in second place.
Elafonisi Beach which is a rare pink beach in Crete came in fourth place.
One beach in Norway even made it onto the list, Kvalvika Beach has bright blue waters and is backed by enormous mountains – certainly making it one of the most beautiful.
Critics of the current system say it doesn’t reflect reality
The Treasury has issued an update about rule changes affecting air travel(Image: Getty)
The Government has issued an update about tax changes affecting UK air travel. The policy update could impact journeys with major airlines such as Ryanair and EasyJet. The ministerial response comes after major concerns were raised about the current system, which campaigners branded “completely unfair”.
The Treasury has issued a response to a petition to Parliament that garnered more than 10,000 signatures calling for a review of the scale rate expenses paid to employees who travel outside the UK, such as airline cabin crew. These scale rate payments are where a business provides an employee with a set amount of cash, to cover business expenses such as travel and meals, so the worker does not have to provide receipts for each item. The petition called for ministers to “review and increase” the expenses rates. The campaign said: “We feel the rates are not reflective or the real costs for people whose work takes them abroad, and that the way they are put into blocks of 5/10 or 24 hour blocks is completely unfair.
“We want these rates to be reviewed by HMRC so they are up to date with the current cost of living.” These time blocks refer to the fact there are different rates that apply depending on the length of time the expenses relate to. There are different rates for a period of more than five hours but less than 10 hours, another one for more than 10 hours but less than 24 hours, and still another rate for a period of more than 24 hours.
The petition goes on to make the case why the current system is unfair: “If a flight is delayed by an hour this can mean dropping from the 24 hour payment down to the 10 hour payment so essentially working 12 hours without a payment. This is a common occurrence in air travel, hence crew being penalised for something out of their control.
Drivers with older cars may face HMRC struggle
“We believe the scale rates need to provide a wider range of rates and time blocks so that if you fall between rates you are not penalised.” Just over 11,000 people have pledged their support for the petition at the time of writing. If a petition reaches 10,000 signatures, the Government is obliged to pen a response.
You can read the petition in full
Government response
The Treasury has now issued a reply. On the question of whether there could be changes to HMRC’s policies in this area, the group said: “The Government keeps all taxes under review as part of the policy making process.
“Any decisions on future changes in this area will be taken in the context of the wider public finances.” The group also set out the reasoning behind the current scale rates system.
The Treasury said: “Overseas scale rates (OSR) allow employers to reimburse overseas travel costs without receipts. Where costs exceed rates, receipts can be used. The Government keeps OSR under review. The Government recognises that employees who travel overseas for work, including cabin crew, incur additional costs and that employers need practical ways to reimburse those costs fairly.
“HMRC’s overseas scale rate system is intended to support this by providing a consistent, evidence based framework for tax free subsistence payments where employees are travelling abroad as part of their role.” The Government body went on to explain that the scale rates are not intended to reflect a person’s expenses in every case, but instead provide a “standard set of benchmark amounts” that employers and employees can use.
Bespoke rates
Further explaining the rules, the response set out: “Employers are not required to use HMRC’s published scale rates if they believe these do not reflect their employees’ circumstances. Employers can agree bespoke rates with HMRC based on evidence of actual costs, or they can reimburse the actual costs incurred where receipts are available.
“These alternatives allow employers greater flexibility where working patterns, disruption or sector specific issues mean the standard rates are not appropriate.” You can sign the petition on the website.
THREE of Greece’s most popular islands are getting new cheap flights next month – so you can live out your Mamma Mia dreams.
So here are some of our top tips for each island, according to the Sun Travel team.
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Wizz Air is jetting off to Mykonos this summerCredit: AlamyFrom June 7, the airline will take Brits to the island with three flights a weekCredit: Alamy
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The first destination that Wizz Air is flying to this summer is Mykonos which is known for its beautiful whitewashed buildings and windmills.
Flights there might be cheap, but Mykonos is one of the most expensive islands in the Cyclades – but Travel Reporter Alice Penwill, has some top tips have recently visited the island said:
She said: “Chora Town is beautiful and has lots of boutique shops selling elegant dresses, designer handbags and it is fun to window shop – or splash out if you wish.
“There are 16 windmills on Mykonos and seven are on the hill in Chora which at sunset makes for an incredible photo.
“If you’re lucky, you might spot several of the island’s pelicans walking about too.
“They’re a mascot of the island, starting with the original, Petros who roamed the island for 30 years.”
Flights to Mykonos are direct from London Luton and will operate three times a week from June 7 – fares start from £38.
Rhodes gets over 300 days of sunshine every yearCredit: AlamyOne-way flights to Rhodes start from £31Credit: Alamy
Brits can also hop onto a flight to Chania in Crete, which is the largest island in Greece.
It’s got everything from beaches, to mountain backdrops, quaint villages and plenty of history.
Its Venetian harbour is where you’ll find waterfront cafes and restaurants with shops being just a few streets behind within maze-like alleyways.
Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey told us what she loved about Crete, saying: “As an anti-fly-and-flopper, you know a hotel is good when even I’m tempted to just stay there the whole time.
“Over on the west side of Crete, I spent a blissful few days at the family-friendly Royal Senses Resort & Spa.
“The sprawling resort had me sold instantly with the massively long heated swimmingpool, as well as the adult-only spa section with day beds and hot tubs.
If you really do want to explore, this side of the island has some beautiful little spots, such as Margarites – a small village known for its ceramics – or Rethimno, a coastal city perfect for market shopping and cocktails.”
The Venetian harbour is lined with pretty tavernasCredit: Alamy
Meanwhile Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski suggested heading to Gioma Meze for classic mezze dishes bfeore catching a boat to the Spinalonga, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Flights to Chania are direct from London Luton operating twice a week from June 8 – fares start from £44.99.
And the third route is to Rhodes, which is the largest of the Dodecanese islands and is well-known for being sunny.
In fact it gets over 300 days of sunshine every year so it’s perfect for a summer break.
The island’s UNESCO listed Old Town is one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe.
And another popular spot is the village of Lindos which has incredible hilltop views looking out to sea.
The island has plenty of beaches too from shallow family-friendly bays to secret coves and ones with plenty of sand for sun-bathing.
Flights to Rhodes are direct from London Luton operating twice a week from June 7 – fares start from £31.
In a new update two massive walkouts are planned – with passengers to two European countries hit
15:44, 27 May 2026Updated 16:09, 27 May 2026
Passengers are set to be hit by two airport strikes in the next week(Image: Getty Images)
Holidaymakers have been warned holiday flights are set to be hit after a massive strike was joined. Portugese media have today reported that cancellations will result after cabin crew and ground staff decided to walk out.
EasyJet has warned of flight disruptions, whilst TAP and SATA are allowing free rebooking. The general strike on June 3 against the labour reform is expected to have a major impact on airport services in Portugal. Reports suggest up to 500 flights could be scrapped, while trains, ferries, city metros and buses are all expected to face disruption.
It comes as holidaymakers heading to Italy were warned to brace for major disruption as a nationwide transport strike threatens chaos across the country. The 24-hour walkout is expected to hit rail services, airports, metro systems, buses and regional transport networks from 9pm on Thursday, May 28, until 9pm on Friday, May 29.
Several unions have confirmed industrial action involving major rail operators including Trenitalia, Trenord and Italo, sparking fears of cancellations and delays on some of Italy’s busiest routes. Long-distance rail services connecting major cities including Rome, Milan, Venice, Florence, Bologna and Naples are expected to be among the worst affected outside protected operating periods.
Italy’s Ministry of Transport has published lists of “guaranteed” services that must continue operating during protected commuter windows between 6am and 9am, and again between 6pm and 9pm. Italy’s Civil Aviation Authority, ENAC, confirmed flights are legally protected during guaranteed operating periods between 7am and 10am and 6pm and 9pm.
In Portugal TAP and the SATA group are even allowing their passengers to rebook flights scheduled for that date at no extra cost. The airlines have already posted notices on social media and are contacting passengers.
Unions in the sector were this week negotiating with the Directorate-General for Employment and Labour Relations regarding minimum services, and only then will it be known exactly how many flights will be cancelled. It is already certain, however, that there will be flight cancellations, not least because air traffic controllers will also be joining the strike.
“Like all airlines operating to and from the country, easyJet may experience some disruption to its flights. The airline is currently assessing the potential impact of this situation, and customers will be contacted directly if their flights are affected. easyJet assures us that it is doing everything in its power to minimise the impact of this strike,” an official source told Expresso.
The Civil Aviation Pilots’ Union (SPAC), unlike during the last general strike on December 11, will not be taking part this time. “We have decided to stand aside from this process for now,” said Hélder Santinhos, speaking to Lusa.
“The first general strike was timely. We took a stand, both pilots and workers across the country, against the labour package,” the SPAC president began by saying. Now, he said that next week’s strike “does not seem to be at the most appropriate time”, although he reserves the right to take further industrial action. This is because, he argued, “unfortunately, the changes made to the labour package do not seem sufficient for us to agree to them”.
This stance differs from that of the members of the National Union of Civil Aviation Flight Crew (SNPVAC), who approved participation in the general strike on May 19. Sitava, the largest union for ground staff and handling personnel, has also joined the strike.
The CGTP has served notice of a general strike for June 3 against the changes to the labour law, after negotiations with the Government ended without agreement.
The hospitality sector is deeply concerned about this strike. The Portuguese Hotel and Restaurant Association (AHRESP) stated on Tuesday that the general strike will exacerbate the sector’s losses, which are already being affected by the situation at border controls.
The association argues, as reported by Lusa, that “national airports are showing signs of operational collapse” and that the general strike on June 3 “could further exacerbate the losses”. It also calls for the European Union’s Entry/Exit System at border controls to be suspended with urgency until the end of September.
AHRESP said in a statement: “Portugal invests in international promotion as a destination of excellence, yet allows the visitor’s first experience to be hours spent queuing, a missed connection, a negative reaction on social media or a booking that is not repeated.”
On Tuesday, AHRESP called for the suspension of the EES (European Union Entry/Exit System) as a matter of urgency and until the end of September, which “would speed up passenger checks and reduce waiting times at airports”.
The association also calls for “negotiation and a sense of responsibility among all parties involved, in order to avoid a strike in aviation and airport services, which, were it to take place, would result in further damage to sectors that continue to face severe economic pressures”.
The Federation of Transport and Communications Unions has announced its support for the general strike. The strike notices cover workers at Lisbon Metro, Carris, Transtejo/Soflusa, Fertagus, Mondego Metro, Porto Metro, STCP and CP.
Unions representing teachers, architects, doctors, nurses and journalists have also announced their support for the protest, which promises to bring the country to a standstill.
Travellers have shared frustration online after being left stuck in overcrowded terminals while trying to enter or leave countries within the Schengen zone
The delays come following the rollout of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES)(Image: Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Brits heading to Europe have been caught in hours-long airport queues, with some passengers reportedly missing flights as new border checks continue to cause disruption across the EU.
Travellers have shared frustration online after being left stuck in overcrowded terminals while trying to enter or leave countries within the Schengen zone. Turning what was meant to be a relaxing getaway quickly turned stressful due to lengthy waits at passport control.
A Facebook user, Clarissa Ward, took to Facebook today after waiting in the “longest line” she’s seen in her life saying: “I saw lots of elderly people and families with small children. People who missed connections. Others who missed flights. Me included.”
“Airport staff only let TAP (Portugal’s main airline) passengers cut the line if they were seconds away from missing their flight. Everyone else? Good luck. Since the much delayed rollout began in October there have been similar scenes in many European cities.”
Another Facebook user, Craig Hackett, explained he arrived three hours ahead of departure and checked their bag at the earliest opportunity, however was met with a “enormous” queue just to reach the boarding gate.
“As a result, we and at least 15 other passengers missed our flight through no fault of our own. There was no prioritisation for passengers at risk of missing flights, no fast tracking, and no meaningful help from airport staff or easyJet representatives”
“What makes this even worse is watching flights take off without passengers who were already inside the airport and trying to reach the gate. How is this acceptable operationally, economically, or environmentally? Where is the customer care for passengers doing everything right and still being left stranded?”
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The delays come following the rollout of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), which officially launched on October 12, 2025. Under the new system, non-EU travellers including Brits are required to register fingerprints and have their photograph taken when entering or leaving the Schengen area.
The Schengen zone, which includes 29 European countries, is the world’s largest free-travel area. EU officials say the new checks are designed to strengthen border security, and reduce illegal migration.
Since the heavy delays, Airlines have taken to social media to urge governments to suspend the new Entry/Exit system (ESS). Ryanair posted on Facebook sharing: “Portuguese Government needs to suspend new Entry/Exit System (EES) until after the peak summer season. Average Ryanair flight time is 1 hour 15 minutes. Lisbon border control wait time is up to 2.5 hours. Portuguese Government must suspend EES to avoid excessive border control queue times at Portuguese airports during peak summer season”
AN airport in Spain is finally set to reopen – after cancelling all flights for the last month.
Santiago de Compostela Airport, in northern Spain, closed in April due to much-needed repair works, costing millions.
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Ryanair operates flights three times a week – but there haven’t been any for a monthCredit: Alamy
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Having closed on April 23, it will finally be back up and running from May 27.
On its closure, an announcement was made on the Spanish airport operator’s website, Aena at the time, saying: “Santiago-Rosalía de Castro Airport will be closed from 23 April to 27 May 2026 for runway resurfacing works.
“During this period, the airport will be closed to all traffic, and no takeoffs or landings will take place.
Around 20 per cent of locals even speak Algherese, which is a dialect of the Catalan language and officially recognised by the Italian and regional governments.
Visitors will see that street signs throughout the old town are written in both Italian and Catalan too.
When it comes to looks, the two cities don’t strike up too much of a resemblance, but both have cobbled streets and golden-coloured buildings.
In Alghero you’re likely to see more of this in its Old Town.
The city has direct flights from the UK for as little as £18Credit: Getty
This is where you’ll find its cafes and restaurants where you can pick up a glass of wine from €4 (£3.48) (or you can buy a bottle at the supermarket from €5 (£4.35)).
When it comes to what to do, most head towards the coastline and visit the city’s beautiful beaches.
One of the most popular is Spiaggia di Maria Pia which has white sand, and is backed by pine trees beach bars along the shoreline.
One visitor said: “The sea is completely Vicks blue – it’s absolutely amazing that there is such a lovely beach within walking distance of the cozy Alghero town.”
Barcelona and Alghero share the same honey-coloured buildingsCredit: Getty
Jet2 summer holidays travel update for anyone with flights booked – The Mirror
Need to know
Jet2 has issued a significant update for all passengers with flights booked this summer
The airline shared the news earlier this week(Image: Getty )
Need to know: Jet2 confirms summer flights will run as normal after securing fuel supply deals
Jet2 has confirmed all summer flights will operate as normal after securing improved fuel supply deals. The news will be welcomed by many passengers after reports of a possible ‘jet fuel shortage’ across Europe.
The budget airline announced today that fuel suppliers have increased production and additional imports are arriving from regions unaffected by Middle East conflicts. This follows negotiations that saw Jet2 ranked as the UK’s best-protected airline against rising fuel costs.
The carrier has pledged no additional charges will be added to existing bookings despite rising costs. Jet2 was among the first UK airlines to guarantee this protection for customers.
CEO Steve Heapy said: “We are in regular dialogue with our fuel suppliers, and the current picture is one of increased production and imports, meaning we continue to look ahead with confidence.”
The airline has also reaffirmed its commitment to swift refunds and flexibility for any cancellations. During Covid, Jet2 earned praise for its efficient customer refund process compared to industry rivals.
The positive fuel news comes after Jet2 was recognised as Europe’s second most fuel-efficient carrier in a major aviation emissions study.
OK!’s Samantha Reilly took a one-hour flight to Jersey for a spa break with her mum, packed with sun, sand and seafood delights
Octavia Lillywhite Acting beauty and wellness editor
06:00, 23 May 2026
Jersey is just a short hop by plane, but feels like a world away(Image: visit jersey)
A tiny emerald jewel in the English Channel, neither quite part of the UK nor part of the EU, Jersey has an out-of-time feel, as though our short flight has taken us not only across the water, but some 20 years or so into the past. It feels gentle, rolling, sun-kissed… and like there might be a Famous Five adventure happening somewhere nearby.
The largest of the Channel Islands, and only 14 miles from the French coast, Jersey beautifully blends British and French influences. Think charming seaside cafés serving overflowing bowls of wine-laced moules or butter-glazed Jersey Royal potatoes. Life moves at a slower pace, but there’s so much variety on this one tiny island. One moment you’re in a lively town, and the next you’re surrounded by sea air, winding country lanes and peaceful villages.
It’s spotlessly clean, incredibly friendly and full of natural beauty. There are dramatic lighthouse dotted coastlines, sandy bays and green fields where golden Jersey cows munch endlessly.
There is also, and this appealed greatly to my mother and I, a host of beautiful spa facilities to indulge in after you have finished exploring.
How to get to Jersey and around the island
Rather than traipse to one of the major airports, we flew direct from London Southend (the route is brand new) and you’re barely up in the air before you’re coming down again.
Ryde Taxis, Jersey’s answer to Uber, were there to pick us up, whisking us to our hotel in 20 minutes (the whole island is less than 40 minutes away, to be fair) and they chatted away about some island gems we shouldn’t miss. It’s a great way to get your bearings.
Places like St Brelade’s Bay offer pure relaxation, especially with the Sandytoes sauna, while Gorey Harbour has a distinctly Mediterranean feel with alfresco dining and ice cream spots. The capital, St Helier – home to around a third of the population, is bustling with its markets, shopping and excellent bus links to everywhere else.
Away from the towns, there’s plenty to explore, from castles to coastline. And the great thing is, because the place is only five miles by nine, you can cover so many in one trip.
The best places to stay in this golden island
Eager to try all the island offered, we started at The Club Hotel & Spa in St Helier. It’s a luxurious boutique stay, complete with a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, Michelin-starred restaurant and a rooftop cocktail bar (their whisky sour is excellent). We treated ourselves to a facial at the spa – easily one of the best I’ve had.
It’s a great place if good food is central to your holidays. First, you’re handy for a wander through historic St Helier Central Market and Beresford Street Fish Market, both integral parts of Jersey’s heritage, where independent traders have been selling for over 200 years.
Plus the hotel’s Bohemia Restaurant offers Michelin-starred dining, with seaweed sourdough and Bordier butter, and a cauliflower cheese doughnut I’ll never stop dreaming of.
For our final night, we headed east to The Moorings Hotel & Restaurant in Gorey. It was absolutely stunning, with spectacular sea views. A place to relax and drink it all in, we made the most of the sunshine with lunch on the terrace, followed by drinks in the cosy bar by the fire.
It’s the team who make this place so special. They told us about a hidden spot for locals on the beach, which we took full advantage of.
Where to find the best Jersey seafood and local delicacies
Apart from the hotels’ own eateries, we highly recommend slotting in times for three other gems. At St Brelade, The Oyster Box is right on the beach to tempt you after a sauna and swim.
The hollandaise crab on toast was a standout. The Salty Dog in St Aubin’s village came highly recommended by our taxi drivers – and didn’t disappoint. A great atmosphere plus fantastic artwork to buy alongside the food.
At Gorey harbour, Sumas Restaurant is casual but exceptional, with views of the castle. Mum, a huge seafood fan, said the lobster and scallops were the best she’s ever had.
Don’t miss these Jersey gems
The Sandytoes Sauna is my top tip. This Finnish-inspired, wood-fired sauna is right on the beach. Paired with a cold sea dip, it’s the most invigorating experience.
We also walked part of the Jersey Tidal Trail, which trundles the 48-mile circular coast, in eight scenic sections. We started at St Catherine’s Breakwater before heading out with Jersey Seafaris to the uninhabited islet of Les Écréhous, spotting seals along the way.
I loved our visit to La Mare Wine Estate. This vineyard and cider farm offers tastings of award-winning wine, cider and the famous Jersey black butter (which absolutely lives up to the hype), along with apple brandy liqueur, served in a chocolate cup.
And finally, Mont Orgueil Castle (known locally as Gorey Castle) is a fine medieval fortress. Towering over the harbour for more than eight centuries, it’s not for the fainthearted. The climb is steep – but absolutely worth it for the breathtaking views.
EASYJET will launch a loyalty program in 2027, to reward repeat bookers of both its flights and holidays.
Customers will be able to accrue points based on how much they’ve spent, which they’ll then be able to use for discounts on future bookings.
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easyJet has announced it will start a new loyalty scheme for its customers next yearCredit: AFPHolidaymakers will be able to save money on flights and holidaysCredit: Getty
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The airline said that it benefits from a “local customer base” with lots of “returning” flyers and essentially wants to reward them for it.
Not many details about the scheme have been announced, but talking to the Financial Times, easyJet CEO Kenton Jarvis said that it would have “broad appeal”.
He added: “Not only do we have commuters… but also people who book holidays accumulate value that they can redeem either on a flight or on holiday.”
Reading between the lines, it doesn’t seem that easyJet will be replacing its easyJet Plus scheme, which is already in place and designed for frequent flyers.
easyJet Plus is available for an annual fee of £249, where passengers benefit from ‘Plus’ bag drop, speedy boarding, inclusive allocated seating and fast track security – and other ‘exclusive benefits’.
Many other airlines operate loyalty schemes, and recently British Airways made a change to the way its tier points count towards silver or gold membership.
For every £1 they spend, they will earn one tier point, which makes it tougher for flyers to earn the top status.
It appears that easyJet will be keeping its easyJet Plus scheme as wellCredit: Getty
According to the Financial Times, Virgin Atlantic said more than 10,000 BA members had switched to its programme after offering to match the status of any customers booking a flight.
Earlier this year, easyJet announced it would be launching new routes from the UK – some of which are from Newcastle International Airport, its newest base which it opened in March.
In October, the airline will begin flights from Newcastle to Fuerteventura providing a winter sun escape to the Canary Island.
Anyone wanting to visit Reykjavik, Iceland, can travel from Newcastle from October 27 twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Maria Ortega, Robert Rowlands and Kate Lally Content Editor
07:53, 22 May 2026
Millions of Brits head to Portugal each year(Image: Marco Bottigelli via Getty Images)
Around 500 flights could be thrown into disarray due to a general strike set to take place in Portugal.
Portuguese news sources are reporting that the industrial action is expected to trigger major disruption across the transport network. The CGTP (General Confederation of Portuguese Workers) has called the strike, with Sic Noticias suggesting that growing numbers of workers’ representatives are backing the campaign.
The National Union of Civil Aviation Flight Personnel (SNPVAC) has predicted that “around 500 flights” could be affected by the walkout on June 3, with the potential for travel chaos to also extend to the days surrounding that date. According to an internal document seen by Notícias ao Minuto and shared with union members, the SNPVAC has also warned that the general strike may impact “the days before and after”.
ECO has stated that the cabin crew strike will chiefly hit operations for TAP, Portugália and SATA. Idealista, along with several other Portuguese media outlets, indicates there may also be knock-on disruption to flights run by other airlines with Portuguese bases.
The outlet highlights this could potentially encompass easyJet and Ryanair, as the industrial action involves cabin crew operating from Portuguese bases.
This comes after comparable action last December which caused widespread chaos across the nation. Rail services ground to a halt across Portugal on December 11 last year. Hundreds of flights were cancelled simultaneously in protest against the very same proposed labour reforms that remain at the heart of this ongoing dispute.
Members of the National Union of Airline Workers voted in favour of the latest industrial action on Tuesday, in opposition to the planned labour reforms.
The CGTP filed a formal pre-strike notice for June 3 in protest against amendments to employment legislation, following fruitless talks with the Government.
The proposed changes to labour law were rubber-stamped by the Government in the Council of Ministers last week and are now due to go before Parliament for debate.
Minister of Labour, Solidarity and Social Security, Rosário Palma Ramalho, confirmed the development at a press conference, a week after Government negotiations on employment law changes ended without agreement in the Social Dialogue.
What could be affected by the strike in Portugal?
Portuguese media reports indicate that urban passenger transport across the country, as well as airports, are likely to face significant disruption. The CGTP has called on all workers to join the industrial action.
The Federation of Transport and Communications Unions has thrown its weight behind the strike. Transport operators expected to be caught up in the action include Lisbon Metro, Carris, Transtejo/Soflusa, Fertagus, Porto Metro, STCP and CP – Comboios de Portugal. The National Union of Civil Aviation Flight Personnel has also confirmed its involvement in the strike, alongside the Union of Aviation and Airport Workers, with the decisions expected to cause widespread disruption across several airlines.
The retail workers’ trade union and the two organisations representing doctors and teachers had previously confirmed they would be taking part in the industrial action, with the Nurses’ Union also verifying its participation.
Meanwhile, Portuguese media is reporting that extra police will be deployed to the country’s airports to manage lengthy queues caused by the new EES border policy. The system affects non-EU nationals travelling for short stays whenever they cross the external borders of most European countries, including Portugal, Spain, Italy and France.
According to Sic Noticias, significant queues have been building in recent days at Portugal’s Schengen Area entry and exit checkpoints. The system is intended to replace manual passport stamping for non-EU nationals, including British citizens, entering the Schengen Area for short-term visits. It captures biometric data – fingerprints and photographs – at border control points, and applies to 90-day, visa-free, or short-stay visa travel.
There have been reports of queues stretching to three and four hours for some British travellers abroad, with a number of passengers even missing their flights altogether due to the lengthy delays. Portugal’s Public Security Police (PSP) is set to strengthen the country’s airports with an additional 360 officers in July, in a bid to cut waiting times for passengers arriving from outside the Schengen Area, according to an official PSP source.
PSP spokesman Sérgio Soares confirmed that the 360 officers are among 560 new recruits who will finish their training on May 28 before immediately embarking on a four-week border guard course. The 360 newly qualified officers are due to begin their airport duties in early July, forming a central part of the PSP’s summer contingency plan.
Police sources have revealed to Lusa that of the 360 new personnel, 150 will be posted to Lisbon airport, 90 to Porto, 70 to Faro, 30 to the Azores, and 20 to Madeira.
JET2 has added nearly 20 new routes to its 2027 roster, in case you’re an early bird who likes to catch a holiday well ahead of time.
The airline is heading to the Greek islands, a pretty French town, and a Channel Island that ‘looks like the Caribbean‘.
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Jet2 is adding 17 routes for summer 2027 from eight UK airportsCredit: AlamyOne of the new routes for next year is from Edinburgh to CreteCredit: Alamy
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Jet2 is adding shorter and ‘more convenient’ trips to its rota for 2027 in order to meet demand – and Birmingham Airport will have three new routes.
One is to Bergerac, a pretty medieval town in France‘s Dordogne – a region known for having magnificent castles and tasty food.
Jet2 will begin flying to Bergerac from May 22, 2026 with one weekly service.
A Bergerac route is also being introduced from Manchester Airport starting on May 22.
Birmingham Airport, along with Bristol and Manchester is adding routes to Jersey, the Channel Island that during the summertime has been compared to the Caribbean.
When Head of Sun Travel (Digital) Caroline McGuire visited she said: “When my family and I visited, every beach was outstanding, the weather glorious, the food a fantastic hybrid of French and English tastes.
“Jersey has many epic beaches, often next to free car parks and regularly featuring fabulous cafes serving both generous portions of food and cold beers.”
Jersey has ‘epic beaches’ and has even been compared to the CaribbeanCredit: Alamy
It earned its name from its turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea – and for holidaymakers it has long stretches of beach and plenty of clubs and bars.
Brits will also be able to fly to Kavala from Birmingham, London Stansted and Manchester Airport.
Bournemouth Airport is adding a one-weekly service to Spain’s Reus from May 2, 2027.
Found in Catalonia, the city has little alleyways filled with cafes and small boutiques.
But, if you’re looking for beaches, Reus is a 20-minute drive and train journey to the beach city of Tarragona.
Tarragona considered a quiet alternative to Barcelona as it’s mostly visited by locals who want to escape the busy city centre.
The airline will start new routes to Paris too from East Midlands, London Stansted and Manchester Airport.
Greece’s Kavala is nicknamed the ‘Blue City’ thanks to its bright seasCredit: Alamy
In most cases these services will take under an hour and a half offering a speedy gateway to the city full of landmarks, foodie spots, galleries and art museums.
If you want to avoid the tourist heavy landmarks, check out what Travel Reporter Alice Penwill did during a daytrip to the city from markets to Seine River walks.
One-weekly flights from Edinburgh Airport to Croatia’s city of Pula will begin on May 2.
The city is said tohave the “perfectsummertemperatures”, accordingto agroup of travel experts – with highs of 27C in July and August.
Pula has its very own Colosseum, and it’s the only remaining Roman amphitheatre to have four side towers entirely preserved.
It’s even said to be more intact than its famous counterpart in Rome.
Of course, the seaside city has incredible beaches too like Galebove stijene and Jamica Beach.
Three airports will provide fast routes to Paris with Jet2Credit: Alamy
From London Gatwick, the airline will fly to Mytilene (Lesvos) – a city found on the third largest Greek island.
In the city, visitors can explore Mytilene Castle, take a stroll around Ermou Street Market and enjoy seafood at the tavernas along the waterfront.
At London Stansted, the airline will start flying to Almeria once a week from May 1, 2027.
The city in southeast Spain has an abundance of tapas bars – thanks to its tapeo culture, if you order a drink then you usually get a free tapa dish too.
The city is very close to the Tabernas Desert which has been used as a filming location for famous Westerns, including The Good, the Bad and the Ugly, A Fistful of Dollars, and For a Few Dollars More, starring Clint Eastwood.
Full List of New Jet2 Routes for 2027…
Birmingham – Bergerac (begins May 22) – one weekly flight
Birmingham – Jersey (begins May 2) – two weekly flights
Birmingham – Kavala (begins May 12) – one weekly flight
Bournemouth – Reus (begins May 2) – one weekly flight
Bristol – Jersey (begins May 14) – two weekly flights
East Midlands – Paris Charles de Gaulle (begins May 16) – two weekly flights
Edinburgh – Chania (Crete) (begins May 5) – one weekly flight
Edinburgh – Pula (begins May 2) – one weekly flight
Edinburgh – Skiathos (begins May 6) – one weekly flight
London Gatwick – Mytilene (Lesvos) (begins May 2) – one weekly flight
London Stansted – Almeria (begins May 1) – one weekly flight
London Stansted – Kavala (begins May 11) – one weekly flight
London Stansted – Paris Charles de Gaulle (begins April 30) – four weekly flights
Manchester – Bergerac (begins May 22) – one weekly flight
Manchester – Jersey (begins May 2) – two weekly flights
Manchester – Kavala (begins May 11) – one weekly flight
Manchester – Paris Charles de Gaulle (begins March 25) – four weekly flights
Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “We are delighted to be significantly expanding our Jersey programme for Summer 2027, with a great choice of flights now departing from six UK airports as a result.
“Thanks to the addition of the new routes and the existing programme, we are offering fantastic choice to Jersey.”
BUDGET airline easyJet has issued a major update on its jet fuel supply including some flights that will now cost more.
EasyJet has revealed that bookings are lower for this summer compared to last year, as a result of the conflict in the Middle East – but flights are set to go ahead as planned.
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EasyJet has revealed that bookings for this summer are lower than usual, but remain unimpacted by the fuel crisisCredit: AFP
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According to the short-haul airline, it has only sold 58 per cent of its seats available until the end of September – which is two per cent less than the same period last year.
However, easyJet boss Kenton Jarvis reassured that the airline is “not seeing any disruption to fuel supply” as he urged people to “book with confidence”.
When asked about the issue on BBCRadio 4’s Today programme, Jarvis said: “I would absolutely say don’t panic about it.
“At easyJet, we fully intend to fly the summer schedule that we have on sale, and we also have a ‘book with confidence’ promise that we will not put fuel surcharges on, so once you’ve booked, that will be the price you pay.”
The airline has increased the prices of its winter flights though, for the 2026/27 season, by “two to three pounds”.
Jarvis said: “Fares for this summer are looking incredibly attractive.
“The fare price that we take is based on a number of factors – it’s based on the demand, the route, the timing of the route.
“What we’re seeing this summer is that fares are broadly in line with where they were this time last year, which obviously is incredibly good value.”
Jarvis did predict that some other airlines may run into problems though, due to the increased fuel costs.
He said: “The demand situation will mean that prices remain competitive throughout the summer.
“If you haven’t hedged, you won’t be able to pass on the incremental price of fuel very easily.
“I’m not going to speculate as to which airlines that might be, but airlines with considerable debt would be one to look at.”
Currently, easyJet has hedged (locked in the price of) 72 per cent of its fuel supply between now and the end of September at the prices available before the Iran conflict.
However, this falls to 53 per cent for the winter 2026/27 period.
AUGUST flights don’t come cheap, but there are some serious savings to be found this summer as airlines slash prices to entice Brits who’ve been nervous about booking because of the Iran war.
Sun Travel has worked with Skyscanner to find some of the cheapest flights that are actually during the school holidays – with some as little as £23 each way.
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You can visit beautiful Burano if you take a flight to Venice this August from £23 each wayCredit: AlamyNice is surrounded by beautiful seaside towns like Villefranche Sur MerCredit: Alamy
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Working with Skyscanner, Sun Travel has crunched the numbers and discovered where Brits can find the cheapest flights that are actually in the school summer holidays.
Some destinations have dropped prices significantly since last summer including favourites like Venice and Nice.
Starting with Venice, an economy return flight starts from £46pp in August this year – which is down by 14 per cent from August 2025.
Famous for its waterways, the beautiful city is one of the most visited in Italy.
And if you travel out of the city, there are charming Italian seaside villages peppered along the Adriatic coast.
Don’t forget to stop by Burano an island in the Venetian Lagoon with pretty rainbow-coloured fisherman’s houses.
A little closer to home, return flights to the French city of Nice start from £48pp – which is a decrease of 19 per cent.
The city is perfect for Brits as it can be reached in as little as two hours and August has highs of 27C so it’s perfect for basking on its pretty beaches.
From Nice, it’s an easy train ride along the Cote D’Azur to some of France’s most beautiful seaside towns like Cannes, Villefranche Sur Mer and Antibes.
Escape central Berlin to Lake Wannsee for boat trips and swimmingCredit: Alamy
Return flights to the German city of Berlin start from £49pp this summer which is 10 per cent less than last year.
The city has plenty of history as well as vibrant murals and nightlife.
And while it isn’t very close to the seaside, Germany and neighbouring Switzerland which is easily reached by train, have stunning countryside and lakeside retreats that are the perfect temperature in mid-summer.
Although, just an hour’s drive from the city centre is Großer Wannsee – it’s a large lake and is actually considered one of ‘Europe’s largest inland lidos’.
It’s a popular summer swim spot and place for a summer daytrip.
When it comes to the flights with the biggest drop in prices return flights to Cape Town in South Africa are down 20 per cent with an average price from£689pp.
Holidays to Cape Town, Venice and Berlin are down from August last yearCredit: Getty
Top 10 biggest price drop destinations for return flights in August 2026…
Skyscanner has found the biggest price drop destinations for return flights in August 2026 compared to last year…
Cape Town – from£689pp (-20 per cent)
Las Vegas – from £585pp (-19 per cent)
Nice – from £48pp (-19 per cent)
Bordeaux – from £68pp (-18 per cent)
Florence – from £99pp (-17 per cent)
Geneva – from £74pp (-15 per cent)
Venice – from £46pp (-14 per cent)
Tirana – from £89pp (-12 per cent)
Osaka – from £748pp (-10 per cent)
Berlin – from £49pp (- 10 per cent)
Prices correct as of May 20 2026 and are subject to change
It’s not the warmest time of year to visit Cape Town, but in August visitors can enjoy whale-watching and views of Table Mountain.
It’s also one of the cheapest bucket list destinations, with everything from safari to vineyards and stunning seaside towns all easily reached from the South African capital.
Another destination that Skyscanner recommends as being cheap with affordable flights is Dortmund in Germany – with an average flight of £72.
The German city is famous for its football culture and highlights its huge Signal Iduna Park and the exhibits at the German Football Museum.
Thanks to its location, both Munster and Dusseldorf are around an hour in each direction by car for those who fancy other city daytrips.
Meanwhile, in the Calabria region in southern Italy, you’ll find the port city of Crotone– where return flights start as little as£62pp.
Crotone in Southern Ialy is famous for its floating fortress can be reached for as little as £31ppCredit: Alamy
It once a Greek colony that was the home of Pythagoras.
Visitors should head to Crotone’s harbour which is central to the city and a lively spot for local seafood markets and restaurants.
The Old Town is the spot for nightlife too, with plenty of bars and a pint can be picked up for only €3 (£2.59).
It’s known for its floating fortress off Capo Rizzuto.
Here are some of Skyscanner’s top tip and tricks for getting the best flight prices…
Laura Lindsay, Skyscanner Travel Expert said…
Book early “The most straightforward way is to book early. More available seats on any route means the balance of supply and demand is in your favour.”
Shop around Another way to get a good fare is by shopping around. This is particularly useful when you are trying to get a flight during a busier time like the school holidays.
Airline combination Combining two different airlines or two departure or destination airports could also mean a big saving.
Alternative destinations Considering alternative destinations is also a great way to grab a good deal and discover somewhere new into the bargain. If you’re even more flexible and can travel at different times, then you’re likely to see an even better saving.
Skyscanner savvy Skyscanner’s ‘everywhere’ search and ‘month view’ are all easy ways to do compare and contrast fares at a glance.
Go for the basics Any route which is well served and established is usually good value. For example, any route from the UK to Spain where many airlines compete for customers usually stays lower for longer as they keep prices low to encourage bookings.
Check live prices Checking live prices and staying flexible on where and when you travel can go a long way when it comes to finding better value. More importantly, travellers should stay informed and check the latest travel advice before booking.
British Airways has said it will cut flights to six destinations and permanently end its route to a seventh, citing the war in the Middle East
British Airways said the cuts are due to the war with Iran (file)(Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)
British Airways is cutting flights to seven major international airports in response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The airline said it has updated its schedule of flights for the Summer 2026 season, which ends on October 24. Customers have been told the changes were made to destinations in the Middle East due to the ongoing conflict between Iran and US-Israeli forces in the region.
As a part of the new schedule, British Airways has reduced the number of flights to seven cities in the Middle East. Services to Dubai are being reduced from three flights a day to one, with the daily service due to return on August 1 (meanwhile, a second daily flight is planned to start on October 16).
Flights to Doha in Qatar, Riyadh in Saudi Arabia and Tel Aviv in Israel are also being cut from twice‑daily to once‑daily. All three routes are expected to resume normal frequency on August 1.
Following a wider review of the programme, the airline has also made the decision to permanently end its route to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia from April 24, The Express reports.
The airlines said in a statement: “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 are keeping the situation under constant review and are directly in touch with affected customers to offer them a range of options.
“Since the disruption began, we have helped thousands of customers return home, operated relief flights, and added additional capacity on key long‑haul routes. We will continue to assess and introduce further flying where possible.”
Destinations impacted by reduced British Airways flights
BRITS could soon be able to fly to a destination in Africa with winter highs of 30C, beautiful beaches and beers for 71p.
Air Tanzania has revealed it’s planning to launch direct flights, for the very first time, between the UK and Tanzania next year.
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Air Tanzania could start direct flights to Tanzania and Zanzibar next yearCredit: BoeingTanzania has pretty beaches, islands and resortsCredit: Alamy
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The airline’s CEO Peter Ulanga announced the flights will operate from London Gatwick to Kilimanjaro International Airport and wants to start the route from July 2027.
Talking to Africa Travel & Tourism Association (ATTA), Peter Ulanga said there be a ‘minimum’ of three flights a week to Tanzania.
Not only that, but he also said they want to run flights to its well-known archipelago as well.
He added: “We will also run direct flights to Zanzibar, expanding the tourism potential of that destination from the UK, too.”
Currently there are no direct routes to Tanzania or Zanzibar – and historically there haven’t been any from the UK.
Airlines from the UK currently have to stopover at the likes of Nairobi to get there.
The new route would make travel for Brits much easier and reduce flight time that is currently between 11 and 15 hours.
The most popular part of Tanzania for Brits is Zanzibar which lies just of the coast, thanks to its white-sand beaches, winter highs of 30C and pretty resorts.
Despite its luxury feel, Zanzibar is cheap too with meals costing around £3.54 and beer can be from 99p.
The Zanzibar archipelago is a popular winter sun spot with beautiful beaches like NungwiCredit: Alamy
Zanzibar has an incredible coastline, some of the best beaches include Nakupenda, Nungwi and Paje which have powder-like sand and are lined with palm trees.
Tanzania is also home to the Serengeti National Park and a popular activity is to book a safari tour to see the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras.
A MAJOR UK airport is hoping to welcome larger jets to its airport for the first time ever and could rival some of the biggest airports in the country.
London City Airport currently welcomes 3.7million passengers a year, mainly operating short flights to Europe such as Amsterdam, Madrid, Florence, Berlin and Frankfurt.
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London City hopes to increase routes to the likes of the Spanish and Greek islandsCredit: Getty Images
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But it is hoping to fly to new destinations like the Balearics and more southern Greek islands.
It is currently unable to offer too many long-haul routes – even as far as southern Spain and Greece – thanks to its short runway, leaving Londoners departing from the likes of Gatwick or Heathrow instead.
However, it is now planning on welcoming bigger aircraft and adding services to far-flung destinations in Europe.
Andy Cliffe, the airport’s new boss, told The Telegraph: “We’re having conversations with everybody at the moment and with all kinds of airlines, from BA right the way through to low-cost carriers.”
He added: “We’ll see a huge increase in range. At the moment we get to parts of Spain and the Balearics.
The airport is set to try and convince BA to bring bigger jets to its airportCredit: Getty
“We’ll start to hit further reaches of southern Spain and towards the Greek islands.”
The airport at London City is 1,500 metres long, which is much shorter than those at other major hubs which are around 3,000 metres.
While the runway at London City cannot be extended, it hopes to install emergency traps at either end.
These are designed to stop planes – especially the larger aircraft which London City hopes to use – from overshooting and will allow them to land safely.
Nothing has been decided yet as the proposals will be looked at by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
It is hoped this change means airlines like easyJet will bring bigger aircraft to the hub.
Other airlines like British Airways which already serves the airport, could bring in larger jets too.
London City does offer a few destinations to islands in Greece already, like Thessaloniki and Skiathos, and Ibiza and Palma but larger planes will allow more destinations and some further afield.