Planes flights and airlines

A COMMON passenger mistake is causing huge problems on flights – and even causing planes to divert.

Earlier this week, a United Airlines flight was forced to land in in Dublin rather than London.

The cause? A laptop sliding down the side of the seat.

While this may not seem like a large cause for concern, airlines warn against any technology that falls down the side of the seat.

This is due to them potentially being damaged if they fall into the seat reclining mechanisms.

If a passenger then damages the laptop by reclining, it can lead to the batteries in them catching on fire.

Read more on plane safety

BABY ON BOARD

The rules and restrictions on flying when you are pregnant

GROUNDED

UK airlines’ mass warning on new EU travel rule that risks Brits stuck on planes

And it’s not just laptops, but mobile phones can also cause this problem.

Back in 2018, crew were forced to extinguish a fire onboard a Qantas flight from Melbourne to LA after a plane stuck between seats set on fire.

And in 2020, a British Airways passenger’s phone caught o fire after it slipped down while she slept, and she then reclined without realising.

When it come to laptop issues, just last year a United flight from Zurich to Chicago had to emergency land in Ireland after a laptop got stuck in the seats.

Patrick Smith, a pilot, and author of Ask the Pilot previously warned about the dangers of this.

He said: “If you’re in an electrically controlled lie-flat seat, of the type common in first or business class, there are a number of nooks and crannies into which your phone can slip – beyond your reach and down into the mechanisms that control the seat’s various positions.”

Passengers are urged to alert flight crew if any of their devices fall down the side of the seat.

If they can’t be retrieved, then the seat shouldn’t be reclined until the plane has landed.

In British Airways‘ latest onboard safety announcement, they warn: “If you do lose your device within your seat, please don’t move your seat yourself.

“Ask a member of crew for some help.”

A rise in onboard fires has also been caused by portable charges, leading ot many airlines banning the use of them.

Most recently, power banks are no longer allowed to be used on a number of Australian airlines, and must not be put in the overhead lockers.

Other airlines like Emirates are also not allowing passengers to use them during a flight, and encourages the use of the in-seat charging instead.

Only Korean Air fully bans power banks being taken onboard, after one of their aircraft was decommissioned due to fire damage caused by one.

Back in 2020, a passenger’s laptop was destroyed after someone reclined their seat onto it, crushing the screen.

RYANAIR will not moved forward with a planned subscription service saying it was too expensive.

The budget airline launched a trial of the subscription service in March which offered fee-paying passengers discounts on fares.

But it today revealed it was scraping the scheme, revealing that it was costing more money than it was bringing in.

The Ryanair ‘Prime’ membership cost £79 for 12 months, which worked out to £6.60 per month.

Ryanair revealed the program had signed up 55,000 subscribers which had generated £3.8 million in subscription fees, but had doled out £5.3 million in fare discounts.

“This trial has cost more money than it generates,” Ryanair chief marketing officer Dara Brady said in a statement.

GROUNDED

British Airways and Ryanair forced to cancel flights to two major airports

STAR ARRESTED

MMA pal of McGregor ‘arrested for attacking cops after Ryanair disturbance’

“This level of memberships, or subscription revenue does not justify the time and effort it takes to launch monthly exclusive Prime seat sales.”

While the Prime service ended today, the 55,000 members would be able to continue using their subscription for the 12-month period for which they’d paid.

The scheme allowed members who flew 12 times per year to save hundreds on hidden fees, such as reserved seats and travel insurance.

Members were also be granted access to exclusive seat sales, giving them the best deals on flights throughout the year.

According to the low-cost airline, Prime members who flew 12 times per year saved up to £420, more than five times the subscription fee.

And members who flew three times a year with the airline still saved £105 through the new scheme.

Ryanair is not the only budget airline with a membership scheme.

Wizz Air launched its ‘All You Can Fly’ membership, allowing unlimited flights for a yearly fee last year.

The Wizz Air membership costs £500 for an entire year, with 50 routes across Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and Asia included in the scheme.

Wizz Air ‘All You Can Fly’ members still have to pay a £9 booking fee for each flight taken as well as other fees like carry-on luggage and checked baggage.

A MAJOR US airline has announced it will no longer conduct flight operations out of one of the country’s busiest airports.

Budget-friendly Spirit Airlines announced in late September that it will cease service in a midwestern city as part of the company’s restructuring effort to prioritize stronger markets.

Beginning on December 1, Spirit Airlines will no longer serve passengers at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

The budget-friendly airline has been struggling financially following its second bankruptcy filing during the summer.

“We apologize to our guests for any inconvenience and will reach out to those with affected reservations to issue a refund,” the company said in a statement at the time.

Minneapolis is among several cities where Spirit Airlines will exit.

Impacted cities include Macon, Georgia, Albuquerque, New Mexico, Birmingham, Alabama, Boise, Idaho, Chattanooga, Tennessee, Columbia, South Carolina, Portland, Oregon, Salt Lake City, Utah, and four cities in California, Oakland, Sacramento, San Diego, and San Jose.

Around the same time, Spirit Airlines confirmed that it would be laying off around one-third of its flight attendants, according to CBS News.

Then, on October 31, Hartford, Connecticut became the latest city Spirit Airlines ceased to conduct service in.

Spirit cut its services out of Bradley International Airport, calling the continued halts to its services “very difficult.”

‘INEXPLICABLE DECISION’

However, Spirit is not the only airline facing financial woes, Avelo Airlines also announced it would stop services at Bradley International Airport.

The airline cited financial struggles as the main reason for leaving the Hartford airport.

However, officials disagreed with the decision as leaving the airport also removes the only direct flight to Montego Bay, Jamaica, from Connecticut.

“The CAA is especially disappointed on behalf of the community, which has fought so hard to secure nonstop service to Jamaica over recent years,” the Connecticut Airport Authority stated.

“The decision to cancel the MBJ route is inexplicable, given the strong ridership, subsidies received, significant airport incentives, and community support.”

JET2 is restarting flights to a Brit-loved holiday destination for the first time in more than a decade.

The airline will start flights to two destinations in Egypt, after scrapping routes back in 2011.

The Egyptian Cabinet Presidency has reported that there will be seven weekly flights to both Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada with Jet2 from 2027.

It added that Brits can get to the two cities from Birmingham, Manchester and London Stansted which will each offer two flights a week.

There will also be a weekly flight to Sharm El Sheikh from Edinburgh and a weekly flight to Hurghada from Glasgow.

Reports say Jet2 CEO Steve Heapy and Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy met at World Travel Market London earlier this month to discuss the flights.

CHRIMBO WIN

Enter these travel comps before Xmas to win £2k holidays, ski trips & spa stays

YULE DO

Travel expert reveals cheap UK holiday parks with Xmas breaks from £9pp a night

The Minister reportedly described the new flights as a significant step towards boosting British tourism to Egypt.

Details have also been published on Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities Facebook page.

A spokesperson for Jet2 told Sun Travel: “As the UK’s favourite airline and tour operator, we continually review our flight and holiday programmes to ensure that they meet the needs of our customers.

“We are in the process of finalising a very exciting programme to Egypt and we will communicate the details, including a fantastic launch offer, with customers next week.

“With guaranteed sunshine and a great launch offer coming, our advice is to watch this space!”

While it’s not the first time that Jet2 has operated flights to Egypt, but has been 14 years since the last ones took off.

Jet2 previously offered flights to both Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, but these were pulled in 2011.

Egypt remains a very popular tourist destination for Brits, especially the Red Sea resort towns which are known for their stretching sandy beaches and plush holiday resorts.

In just five hours Brits can enjoy sun, sea and sand as well as affordable food and drink.

Of course the resort cities are perfect for winter sun as during the colder season there are average highs of 22C – even in December and January.

During the summer it’s very hot with temperatures reaching 38C.

In recent years, Egypt has been named the ‘best value for money’ destination, according to the Post Office Travel Money.

Brits stopped going to Egypt as much – leading to the 2011 flight cancellations – due to conflict within the region.

This was the year that the Egyptian Revolution started with demonstrations happening all over the country.

Some resorts were still visited, but then in 2015 there was a terror attack on a Russian passenger plane which killed all 224 onboard.

As a result, flights from the UK were stopped for at least four years, with TUI reintroducing holiday packages in 2019.

This was following the UK Foreign Office issuing new guidance which said certain destinations were considered safe with upgrades to things like airport security.

Now, many fly to Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada, like EgyptAir, easyJet, TUI, Wizz Air, British Airways, and Turkish Airlines.

CRITTERS & JITTERS

Vogue & Spencer insist marriage is strong – why do pals think otherwise?

BLAZE HORROR

Hundreds feared dead in Hong Kong inferno as three arrested for manslaughter

For more on Egypt, here’s the perfect destination for families seeking adventure from scaling pyramids to snorkelling and desert safari.

Plus, one writer headed to another African city home to a new £900million museum – and you can get there with easyJet flights.

AN airport that was forced to close in 2022 is inviting people back – and they even even walk on the runway.

Doncaster Sheffield Airport axed all flights and shut its doors three years ago, due to financial viability issues.

With new plans being pushed to relaunch operations in the next year years, it is opening to the public for a special event.

Being organised by Libra Races, the new Run the Runway event will let people run a race directly on the abandoned runway.

Guests can choose between a 3.5k – which is open to anyone over the age of seven – or a 5.8k race – for anyone aged 12 and above.

Runners will be given a ‘bespoke’ medal with the race being chip timed.

GROUNDED

Major UK airport begins shutdown of terminal after half a century in ‘end of era’

HOL NO

Chaos to hit UK’s 2nd busiest airport this weekend as FOUR major routes shut

At the end, there will also be t shirts on sale, and people will able to take pictures with a Vulcan Bomber aircraft currently on the tarmac.

Proceeds from the race are going towards the upkeep of it, as it also offers rare cockpit and wing tours still.

Libra Races said: “We are very excited to announce that Run the Runway is now open for entries, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to run a race on the Doncaster Sheffield Airport Runway ahead of flights returning hopefully in 2027.”

The one-day event is set to take place next year on March 21.

Tickets are on sale with the shorter race costing £14 and the longer route costing £20.

More than 300 tickets have already been sold since they went on sale yesterday.

A huge drive to reopen Doncaster Sheffield has resulted in plans to relaunch passenger flights.

The airport first opened in 2005, then called Robin Hood Airport, before being renamed to Doncaster Sheffield in 2016.

The airport welcomed both TUI and Wizz Air, operating to destinations across Europe.

This included destinations such as Paris, Alicante, Dubrovnik and Berlin.

However, the airport closed back in 2022 after Peel Group – the then operator – said it was making yearly losses.

But new plans will see a £193million reopening project, the City of Doncaster Council confirmed.

Airlines such as Ryanair and TUI have been in talks with the airport, and it is hoped that some flights could relaunch as soon as 2027.

Yet this is likely to initially be limited to cargo flights, with commercial routes following in 2028.

Reopening the airport could boost the economy by as much as £5billion.

Here is another closed UK airport that wants to reopen.

MORE flights have been cancelled today amid a nationwide strike abroad.

The walk out across Belgium is following the new plans introduced by the country’s prime minister to reduce the debt.

Brussels Airport confirmed they have cancelled 110 of the 203 incoming flights today.

This is in addition to the departing flights already axed due to the strike.

The remaining 93 incoming flights will still go ahead.

In a statement yesterday, Brussels Airport confirmed: “Due to the national industrial action on Wednesday 26 November in which the staff of the security and handling service provider is participating, we unfortunately expect major disruptions to our airport operations on that day.”   

SWAP OUT

Five European holiday spots you can still go to instead after Ryanair axed flights

GROUNDED

Major airports axe ALL flights tomorrow affecting hundreds of Brit passengers

Hundreds of Brits will be affected by the cancellations as airlines including BA and Ryanair operate flights.

British Airways has cancelled all of its London Heathrow to Brussels flights.

And Ryanair has cancelled all of their flights to Brussels Charleroi which affects routes from Manchester and Edinburgh.

Flights between Manchester and Brussels that are operated by Brussels Airlines have also been cancelled.

Brussels Charleroi Airport also said in a statement: “Due to the national day of action planned for Wednesday 26 November by a united front of trade unions and the lack of staff available to ensure safe operations, Charleroi Airport will not be able to operate scheduled departures and arrivals.

“Passengers scheduled to fly via Charleroi on November 26 will be contacted in the coming days by their airline for a rebooking or refund.”

Antwerp and Ostend-Bruges airports are fully operating stick.

It’s not just flights affected, as Eurostar travel has also been affected.

A number of trains between Paris and Belgium have been cancelled or delayed this week.

They told passengers: “Please keep an eye on our live train info page which we’ll update as soon as we know the strike impacts our timetable.

“Public transport and domestic train traffic could be disrupted. If you have a connecting journey, please check for travel updates with the relevant carrier ahead of your trip.

“You may need to allow extra time for your journey.”

Ferries and domestic trains are also being affected and cancelled.

RYANAIR has axed hundreds of thousands of seats across many routes in Europe resulting in Brits losing direct routes to some of their favourite holiday destinations.

If you’re trying to think of some alternative spots for your next holiday, the experts at MoneySuperMarket along with Sun Travel have found options some for you.

Carcassonne, France

In 2025, Ryanair cut many services to France including its route to Bergerac which is known for its half-timbered houses and medieval streets.

If you still want that for your next break, Carcassonne is a great alternative.

MoneySuperMarket said: “Carcassonne makes a brilliant alternative to Bergerac for travellers still wishing to fly with Ryanair.

“The city shares Bergerac’s medieval charm, featuring a historic fortress, winding old streets and an impressive local wine scene.

SNOW WAY

All the best Xmas days out under £10 including FREE ice skating & Santa’s grotto

TRIP OR TREAT

Bargain deals for half-term holidays from just £109pp with balmy 28C temps

“For an aesthetic even closer to Bergerac, the village of Alet-les-Bains is only an hour’s drive away, with half-timbered houses that feel like a step back in time.”

Brits can fly directly from London Stansted to Carcassonne with Ryanair with a flight time of two hours.

Or fly from Manchester and arrive in the French city in just two hours and 10 minutes.

Marrakesh, Morocco

It’s not just France that’s affected, Ryanair announced it would be cutting its routes routes to Tenerife North starting from winter 2025 season.

However, if it’s winter sun that Brits are looking for, then there are a few other spots to fly to instead.

Ryanair will instead be putting more capacity into its routes to Morocco – so a trip to Marrakesh, Agadir, Rabat or Essaouira could be an option.

Whether you’re looking for a city break or a beach destination – each city offers something different.

But all have souks to explore, pretty resorts and hotels as well as high winter temperatures.

Flying to Marrakesh takes under four hours from the UK and flights from London are as little as £15 in December.

Krakow, Poland

Ryanair also cut flights to Brive in France as a result of the rising tax rate.

But if you still fancy the charm of the French city that’s known for its fantastic food, then you might find what you’re looking for in the Polish city of Krakow.

MoneySuperMarket added: “Brive is loved for its food markets, history, museums, and that artisanal distillery feel, but Krakow could be an alternative with a stunning medieval old town, lively markets, and rich museums.

“Krakow also offers its own vodka distillery experiences, bringing the same taste of local culture while also being an easy city to reach from many UK airports.”

Brits can fly to Krakow from major airports in the UK with flights taking just over two and half hours.

In January one-way tickets are as little as £15.

Madeira, Portugal

Ryanair recently announced plans to axe flights to the Azores in March 2026.

The autonomous Portuguese islands are known for their dramatic volcanic landscapes and have long been a favourite with UK holidaymakers.

One alternative recommended by the team at Sun Travel is beautiful Madeira.

Still in Portugal, the archipelago has the lush greenery of the Azores as well as black sand beaches.

It’s not just about nature, though, as there are still bustling cities like Funchal where holidaymakers can explore the Old Town and visit the Mercado dos Lavradores market.

Or wander through the pretty Madeira Botanical Garden and Monte Palace Tropical Garden.

Flights to Madeira depart from the likes of Bristol, Manchester, Bournemouth, Leeds, Nottingham, Liverpool and London for as little as £16.

Porto, Portugal

In August 2025, Ryanair said confirmed that two million seats across Spain would be being scrapped including those to Vigo.

The city is known for its vibrant seafood scene, beautiful Atlantic coastline, and as a gateway to the Cíes Islands which are just a 45-minute ferry trip away.

For a different budget-friendly, and direct route from the UK – check out Porto.

The coastal city in northwest Portugal is known for its huge bridges, port wine production, and colourful, winding streets.

Its position by the sea means that, like Vigo, it has plenty of fresh seafood.

While you’re there, don’t forget to try the ‘Porto sandwich’ called Francesinha, which is made with layered meats like steak, ham, and sausage between toasted bread slices.

You can fly directly from the UK to Porto from London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

The flight time is under two and a half hours – and they’re as little as £15.

LAVALEY VIEW

Huge volcanic eruption sends ash 6 miles high & poisonous gas toward villages

TRAITORS CHAOS

Bombshell evidence that proves Traitors star ISN’T dad to Charlotte’s baby

Here’s another alternative destination to visit this year as Ryanair scraps hundreds of flights – and it’s known for winter sun.

Plus, discover the six alternative Med holidays for 2025 with quieter beaches, cheaper food and affordable deals.

A MAJOR UK airport has officially closed part of a terminal after 60 years of operation.

Large sections of the departures and arrivals halls have shut, with only one airline remaining in the terminal.

Manchester Airport’s Terminal 1 has now closed to all passengers, except those travelling with Ryanair.

The terminal was opened by Prince Philip in 1962 and entered its final phase of closure last week.

Airport transformation

Meanwhile, Terminal 2 has undergone a 10-year, £1.3 billion transformation which has more than doubled its size.

After an extension to the terminal opened in 2021, the airport is now in the final stages of overhauling the original Terminal 2.

TAKING OFF

One of Europe’s busiest airports to get £8.7billion renovation with new terminal

GROUNDED

Major airports axe ALL flights tomorrow affecting hundreds of Brit passengers

In the meantime, Terminals 1 and 3 will operate as a temporary hybrid hub for Ryanair until the full closure of Terminal 1 in early 2026.

Airline passengers have described the Terminal closure as the “end of an era”.

Fond farewell

A spokesperson for the airport told the BBC staff have been “really touched by all the lovely comments and by people sharing their memories”.

“Since the 1960s, T1 has been the starting point for millions of journeys,” Manchester Airport said in an official post.

The airport, which ranks as the UK’s busiest outside of London, has become well-known for the unique chandeliers in Terminal 1.

These iconic Venetian glass chandeliers were removed in 2003 and were placed on display in various museums.

However, these iconic features will now be on display in Terminal 2, where they are being resurrected to form a new piece of art.

“Even though we love Terminal 1, we weren’t really prepared for just how many other people share our affection for it,” said an airport spokesperson.

“It may be the end of an era for Terminal 1 as we know it, but we wanted to take some time to really celebrate it because it’s truly a part of the history of the North and plays a key part in lots of people’s memories of international travel.”

The airport rep added that passengers will not need to worry about extra traffic in Terminal 2 as a result of the closure.

“There is absolutely nothing that anybody needs to worry about, we have invested in the terminal facility and the road network as well,” they said.

More on travel

One of Europe’s busiest airports is also set to get a £8.7 billion renovation, including a brand new terminal.

And TUI is set to launch more hotels in very affordable exotic countries, including locations with white sand beaches and £1 beers. 

Meanwhile, a major airport has cancelled all flights tomorrow affecting hundreds of British passengers.

LAVALEY VIEW

Huge volcanic eruption sends ash 6 miles high & poisonous gas toward villages

TRAITORS CHAOS

Bombshell evidence that proves Traitors star ISN’T dad to Charlotte’s baby

Plus, the £300 million attraction set to open with a huge new waterpark and the UK’s longest ski slope.

And the six best Black Friday cruise deals, from no-fly trips to Europe to £300 off Caribbean sailing.

A MAJOR airport hub that sees around 60million passengers per year has revealed its massive new masterplan.

It will spend £8.7billion over the next 10 years to expand adding a new terminal, piers, as well as gates for larger aircraft.

Amsterdam Schiphol is the largest airport in the Netherlands and a major European hub.

Currently, the airport only has one terminal, but the new masterplan reveals a south terminal is set to be built.

However Amsterdam Schiphol said that the airport will ‘retain its unique design and one-terminal concept’ with ‘everything under one roof’ and ‘within walking distance’.

It was also added that additional gates will be needed for the largest aircraft.

STREET SMARTS

I visit New York 6 times a year – my expert budget guide including £1 pizzas

CHRIMBO WIN

Enter these travel comps before Xmas to win £2k holidays, ski trips & spa stays

Inside, there will be more space for additional shops, restaurants, seating areas and lounges.

Nearby, the roads around the airport will be upgraded along with public transport to the terminal.

Other plans include a new metro line between Amsterdam, Schiphol and the nearby town of Hoofddorp.

Work to upgrade the airport first started last year with the initial project upgrading Pier A as well Piers B, C, D and H/M.

Airport piers are also known as “arms” and are long, narrow buildings where planes can park.

Schiphol’s CEO Pieter van Oord commented on the proposed transformation: “For more than a century, Schiphol has been a home for world travellers, a hub for goods and a cornerstone of our economy.”

He continued: “With our plans for the future, we want to maintain and strengthen that position and contribute to the progress of the Netherlands. Our future can be summed up in two words: quality and balance.”

He added, “This is how we keep the Netherlands moving and make a small country great. With a high-quality airport that serves the Netherlands.”

It’s currently the fourth busiest airport in Europe; in 2024, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport handled 66.8 million passengers.

It was named the third best airport in Western Europe at this year’s Skytrax World Airport Awards.

One airport being built in Riyadh in Saudi Arabia will be the world’s biggest once built.

King Salman International Airport is set to surpass all other airports in size, including the current biggest airport in the world which is also in the country.

The 22sqm airport will feature six runways – up from two – parallel to each other and will be built around the existing King Khalid International Airport.

It will approximately be the same size as Manhattan in New York – or twice the size of the city of Bath in the UK.

The airport has moved into its construction phase and will be designed by Foster + Partners, a UK firm which is behind London‘s Gherkin.

Inside, travellers will be able to explore 4.6sqm of shops. A lot of features in the airport are set to include high tech, such as climate-controlled lighted.

LAVALEY VIEW

Huge volcanic eruption sends ash 6 miles high & poisonous gas toward villages

TRAITORS CHAOS

Bombshell evidence that proves Traitors star ISN’T dad to Charlotte’s baby

Read more on two major UK airports to be much easier to travel to – after thousands caught out with strict £100 fines.

Plus, the UK airport gets new long-haul flights to one of the world’s best cities – the first in nearly 20 years.

ALL flights are being cancelled at two major European airports tomorrow and it affects Brits.

A national strike is currently taking place across Belgium, affecting public transport.

The walk out follows new laws that would change labour laws including benefits and pensions, put forward by Prime Minister Bart De Wever to tackle the country’s growing debt.

Despite starting yesterday, tomorrow will see the most chaos when it comes to flights.

Belgium’s biggest airport in Brussels confirmed all departures would be cancelled tomorrow (November 26).

Brussels Airport said in a statement: “Due to the national industrial action on Wednesday 26 November in which the staff of the security and handling service provider is participating, we unfortunately expect major disruptions to our airport operations on that day.”   

Read more on cancellations

GROUNDED

European airports forced to cancel ALL flights affecting thousands of passengers

GROUNDED

Ryanair set to cancel 600 flights next week – affecting 100,000 passengers

“To ensure the safety of passengers and staff, we have decided, in consultation with the airlines, not to operate any departing flights on 26 November. In the upcoming days, the airlines will contact passengers directly to inform them of their options.”

Some arrival flights may also be affected as well as any public transport to and from the airport.

This affects around 30 flights to the UK, according to SkyRefund, as airlines including BA, easyJet and Brussels Airlines all operate fights there.

This means hundreds of passengers will find themselves having to make alternative arrangements.

Brussels South Charleroi Airport – primarily used by Ryanair – is also being affected by the cancellations.

They said in a statement that there would be no departures or arrivals tomorrow.

They explained: “Due to the national day of action planned for Wednesday 26 November by a united front of trade unions and the lack of staff available to ensure safe operations, Charleroi Airport will not be able to operate scheduled departures and arrivals.

“Passengers scheduled to fly via Charleroi on November 26 will be contacted in the coming days by their airline for a rebooking or refund.”

SkyRefund CEO Ivalyo Danailov says passengers should contact their airline to look at rebooking and refund options.

However, compensation won’t be available as it is seen as an “extraordinary event”.

Eurostar has also warned of disruption affecting trains between Paris and Brussels.

This will have a knock on effect for Brits travelling from London St Pancras.

A number of trains were cancelled or delayed yesterday, which could also hit more today and tomorrow.

They said in a statement: “Please keep an eye on our live train info page which we’ll update as soon as we know the strike impacts our timetable.

LAVALEY VIEW

Huge volcanic eruption sends ash 6 miles high & poisonous gas toward villages

TRAITORS CHAOS

Bombshell evidence that proves Traitors star ISN’T dad to Charlotte’s baby

“Public transport and domestic train traffic could be disrupted. If you have a connecting journey, please check for travel updates with the relevant carrier ahead of your trip.

“You may need to allow extra time for your journey.”

THE first flight linking two of the UK’s top holiday spots has officially taken off, restoring a vital travel link just weeks after the collapse of its former operator.

The route between Cornwall Airport Newquay and London Gatwick had been left in limbo earlier this month when Eastern Airways revealed it was on the brink of administration.

The regional carrier, which had operated the connection seven times a week, suspended services as the company folded.

But on Sunday afternoon, November 23, Skybus officially stepped in – with its inaugural flight marking the return of the essential link used by holidaymakers, commuters and the region’s tourism industry.

The daily service is being supported by both the Government and Cornwall Council.

Only twelve passengers were on board the Boeing 737 for the first take-off, leaving plenty of space on the 180-seater aircraft as the replacement route got underway.

PACK IT IN

More airlines ban use of popular travel item onboard flights due to safety issue

TAKING OFF

The secret tool British Airways use to add new routes & how they pick them

Cornwall Airport Newquay’s managing director Amy Smith said the launch marked “an important milestone” for the region.

She added that the reinstated London link would strengthen Cornwall’s “resilience” and support the economy year-round, welcoming Skybus as a partner for “a dependable service for residents, businesses and visitors alike”.

Cornwall Council also hailed the restart as a major boost.

Cllr Tim Dwelly, portfolio holder for economic regeneration, said the return of the connection would play a key role in supporting local business and tourism confidence.

How much does it cost?

Fares on the new Skybus service begin at £79.99 one-way, including a 15kg checked bag.

Travellers can pay extra for additional luggage or a FlyFlexi add-on, which offers increased baggage allowance, ticket flexibility and security fast-track from £22.50 each way.

Skybus confirmed it expects to switch to a smaller 78-seat Q400 turboprop aircraft next month, with services increasing to twice daily from mid-February.

Managing director Jonathan Hinkles said the launch was “a proud moment” for the airline and a major step forward for Cornwall’s connectivity, describing the route as crucial for keeping communities and businesses linked to the capital all year.

Airline collapse

The reinstated service comes after weeks of uncertainty for travellers. Eastern Airways, one of the UK’s remaining regional carriers, collapsed earlier in November after years of financial struggle.

The airline reported a £19.7million net loss for the year to March 2024 – almost £5million worse than the previous year.

Cornwall Council moved quickly to secure a temporary agreement with Skybus, ensuring the connection wasn’t lost for long.

Leader of the council Leigh Frost said the route was essential, particularly with the county’s unreliable rail links, adding that Cornwall “needs that secure route so it can access the rest of the world”.

Skybus will continue to operate the service until at least mid-2026, while the council works to find a long-term airline to take on a four-year contract.

Previously, the route has been operated by FlyBe and after that, British Airways.

Eastern Airways took over operations in 2020 until its collapse earlier this month.

While stepping in on the Newquay–Gatwick route is new territory for Skybus, the airline is no stranger to Cornwall.

It has flown between Newquay and the Isles of Scilly for more than 30 years, with flights also running from Land’s End and Exeter.

Its parent company, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Company, also operates boats to the islands.

With the reinstated air link now back in action, Cornwall’s gateway to the capital is once again open, offering welcome stability after a turbulent month for regional travel.

Plus, here are the pretty twin beach villages in the ‘forgotten corner’ of Cornwall.

And another Cornish village compared to Greece with seafront Roman attraction and one of the UK’s warmest beaches.

NO WEIGH

McDonald’s twice a day saw me reach 25st… I’ve lost 12st & now exes want me back

WASHOUT

I’m A Celeb in chaos as stars are EVACUATED from camp and filming delayed

Plus an English village that’s the ‘quiet side of Cornwall’ has A-list holidaymakers and no cars.

For alternatives to Cornwall, one travel writer would encourage Brits to head to her county instead.

A NUMBER of airlines are set to join the masses in banning a popular item on flights.

A handful of Australian airline companies are set to ban power banks on their flights within the next few weeks.

Qantas and Virgin Australia will ban the useful charging item after one caught fire in an overhead locker onboard a Virgin Australia flight in July.

The new rules mean that passengers will be limited to what size the portable charger is and they must be easily accessible within a passenger’s luggage.

Passengers will also be limited in how many portable chargers they take onboard to just two.

Virgin Australia’s chief operations officer Chris Snook said: “Globally, more lithium battery-powered devices are now being carried by travellers, and while these items are generally safe when packed and handled appropriately, this move will minimise any potential risks associated with these devices.”

Read more on travel inspo

ALL IN

I found the best value all inclusive London hotel… just £55pp with free food & booze

HOL YES

I’m a travel editor & mum-of-3… my favourite family holidays from just £3pp a night

Changes in policy for Virgin Australia will come into force on December 1.

Passengers will be limited to a power bank capacity of 100 watt-hour – anything more than this and special approval will be needed.

As for other Australian airlines, the ban will take effect from December 15 for Qantas, QantasLink and Jetstar and the maximum capacity of a power bank allowed will be 160 watt-hour.

The ban will apply to all international and domestic flights.

In an announcement last week, the airlines confirmed that power banks will still be allowed on flights, they just need to be somewhere accessible – so ideally in you underseat bag in front of you or the pocket in the back of the seat.

Virgin Australia flights will also not allow power banks to be stored in the overhead compartment.

Power banks will also be banned from checked-in luggage.

If a passenger needs to charge their device during a flight, they can use the in-seat USB ports.

The Australian airlines are not the first to introduce limits on power banks, as a number of other airlines have already introduced rules such as Emirates and Singapore Airlines.

If you want to know whether your power bank is allowed on a flight you are due to catch, first have a look at your airline’s website to find out its capacity limits on power banks.

Then, to calculate the watt-hour of your power bank, multiply the battery capacity (mAh) by the voltage (V) of the internal lithium battery and divide by 1,000.

Australian airlines introducing new rules on power banks follows a statement made by the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) in the US, back in September, after 50 incidents had been reported concerning power banks onboard flights.

The FAA said: “Lithium batteries stored in passenger overhead bins and or in carry-on baggage may be obscured, difficult to access, or not readily monitored by passengers or crewmembers.

“Because of this, detection of thermal runaway and firefighting measures may be delayed in flight, increasing the risk to safety.”

NO WEIGH

McDonald’s twice a day saw me reach 25st… I’ve lost 12st & now exes want me back

WASHOUT

I’m A Celeb in chaos as stars are EVACUATED from camp and filming delayed

In other aviation news, Ryanair is set to axe all flights to European islands often compared to Hawaii.

Plus, UK airport gets new long-haul flights to one of the world’s best cities – the first in nearly 20 years.

THE thought of a long-haul holiday, far away from the cold UK, can be tempting for some – apart from the jet lag.

But experts have revealed the three day ‘hack’ that is meant to help you get over it much faster on holiday, and not waste any of your vacation time.

Most winter sun destinations are pretty far away, bar a few African islands.

And being far away comes with a tricky time difference to adjust to.

That’s because your internal body clock – also called the circadian rhythm – becomes confused when you change time zones quickly.

This can then result not only in extreme tiredness, but also headaches and stomach aches.

NO LAG

Jet lag-free islands that are 27C in December to get new easyJet flights

ES-CAPE

World’s cheapest long-haul spot is perfect for families – top beaches & no jet lag

Sleeping patterns as well as eating habits can both be severely affected by jet lag.

According to experts at Go2Africa, there are a few ways to try and avoid the worst symptoms of jet lag.

One is choosing the correct flight time before a long journey.

They advise booking a flight that lets you land between 2pm and 5pm, as it allows exposure to daylight which can help stave off the effects of jet lag.

Not only that, but it also means you have enough time to try and adjust before going to sleep at the location’s natural time.

Otherwise there is also the three-day rule, which you need to do before you even get on a flight.

This is particularly for anyone travelling east, as this is when you are more likely to have to go to bed earlier rather than later.

To try and get used to this, it is advised to adjust your sleep schedule three days before you travel.

This is advised to be as much as one hour per day, so you find it easier to sleep at a more sociable time on holiday.

And this is then the same when flying westwards but instead to sleep an hour later.

Of course this isn’t the easiest, trying to fall asleep earlier than you are used to.

But even as little as 30 minutes per day can still make a difference.

kell no

Jack Osbourne’s furious sister rips into ‘bully’ Kelly Brook after I’m A Celeb row

MUM PAIN

I was arrested in front of daughter for WhatsApp message, £20k won’t erase trauma

Even the plane you are on could increase or decrease the effects of jet lag.

If you want to go somewhere that is 27C in December but has no jet lag – then we’ve found some great islands.

RYANAIR has announced that it will be scrapping all its flights to another European destination.

From March 29, 2026, Ryanair will be axing all its flights to and from the Azores.

The airline has said that the cancellations are as a result of high airport fees.

This means the six routes that currently travel to the Azores, which works out to around 400,000 passengers each year, will be scrapped.

The airline also said that ATC charges have risen by 120 per cent since the Covid-19 pandemic and there has also been the introduction of a €2 (£1.76) travel tax.

Ryanair’s CCO Jason McGuinness said: “We are disappointed that the French airport monopoly ANA continues to raise Portuguese airport fees to line its pockets, at the expense of Portuguese tourism and jobs – particularly on the Portuguese islands.

Read more on travel inspo

ALL IN

I found the best value all inclusive London hotel… just £55pp with free food & booze

SNOW WAY

All the best Xmas days out under £10 including FREE ice skating & Santa’s grotto

“As a direct result of these rising costs, we have been left with no alternative other than to cancel all Azores flights from 29 March 2026 onwards and relocate this capacity to lower cost airports elsewhere in the extensive Ryanair Group network across Europe.

“After 10 years of year-round Ryanair operations, one of Europe’s most remote regions will now lose direct low-fare flights to London, Brussels, Lisbon, and Porto due to ANA’s high airport fees and Portuguese Govt. inaction.”

The Azores are around 950 miles from Portugal itself and the islands offer a great short-haul holiday destination.

The nine volcanic islands are known for having unspoiled beauty, which includes vibrant green hills and black sandy beaches.

According to Azores Getaways, “just like Hawaii, the Azores offer visitors captivating coastlines dotted by sun-dappled beaches and stunning shores.

“But one major thing that visitors won’t find in this Portuguese paradise are throngs of tourists, crammed together and rivaling one another for a small patch of sand”.

Many of the islands have natural hot springs and thermal pools, which attract a lot of visitors.

The Azores are also ideal for people who love the outdoors, as you can go hiking in the forests, explore volcanic landscapes, swim in natural pools and even do a bit of whale and dolphin watching.

There are even a number of historic towns across the islands including Ponta Delgada, which has a number of buildings made from black and white volcanic stone.

One Sun reporter who visited the Azores said: “With its black beaches, hot springs and isolated spot in the Atlantic, the nine volcanic islands of the Azores make you feel as though you’ve stepped on to a movie set.

“We’d arrived on a speedy two-hour flight from Lisbon to the largest island in the archipelago, and gateway to the Azores, Sao Miguel, and every turn in our rental car looked picture-perfect.

“First we embarked on a kayak tour of the pea-green Furnas Lake, and snuck a peek at the 17th century mansions nestled on the quiet banks.

“Then, a quick drive up to the Pico do Ferro viewpoint rendered us speechless as we gazed down at the bubbling geysers below and the spectacular crater lake we had just navigated below.”

They added: “Many people are lured to the Azores for whale watching and the abundant marine life around the islands.

“With everything you could need to feast your eyes and your belly, it’s clear to see why it is often dubbed the Hawaii of Europe.

“Thankfully, it doesn’t come with a long-haul flight and pricey plane ticket.”

kell no

Jack Osbourne’s furious sister rips into ‘bully’ Kelly Brook after I’m A Celeb row

MUM PAIN

I was arrested in front of daughter for WhatsApp message, £20k won’t erase trauma

In other aviation news, a UK airport is getting new long-haul flights to one of the world’s best cities – the first in nearly 20 years.

Plus, the often-forgotten-about European country that’s getting new British Airways flights.

BRITISH Airways flies to over 200 destinations in more than 65 countries – but with so many places to choose from across the globe how does it decide on where to fly to?

Well, we thought the same so, of course, we asked the airline the question.

Rachel Riley, British Airways’ director of Route Network Development and her team are responsible for launching new routes and looking at future opportunities for the airline.

Ultimately, they then create a schedule and new flights to destinations across the globe that allow the airline to continue to thrive in the aviation industry.

Rachel told Sun Travel: “Planning our network is a fine balancing act, like completing a complex puzzle.

“It’s not only about selecting destinations that we think our customers love and want to visit throughout the year – we also think about things like aircraft availability, cabin crewing requirements, and the specific commercial and operational dynamics that influence a particular route or destination.”

Read more on travel inspo

TRIP TIPS

I’ve visited Disney 55 times… mistakes parents make that ruin trips & waste money

CHEAP BREAKS

UK’s best 100 cheap stays – our pick of the top hotels, holiday parks and pubs

Rachel added how the process actually begins 18 months before a route launches.

“It’s certainly a marathon and not a sprint when it comes to branching out our network,” she said.

When coming up with ideas for a new route, the airline makes sure to always watch out for trends, but this isn’t the only factor that goes into deciding a new route.

Rachel explained: “Route planning is a bit like solving a giant puzzle.

“Like how my namesake Rachel Riley uses her maths skills to solve games on Countdown, my love for maths has taken me in the direction of solving route network puzzles.

“Our teams do a lot of mathematical modelling and analysis to determine the best overall network, incorporating any new destinations we want to operate.

“From market size and customer demand to competitor activity and connecting traffic, we consider many variables to ensure each new route makes sense for both our network and our customers.”

And it isn’t as simple as getting rid of one route and adding another.

When the moment does come though, when a new route is created, the team will work closely with the British Airways scheduling team to turn it into an operable route and flight schedule.

Rachel also shared: “There’s no hiding from the fact that we are impacted by external factors beyond our control [as well].”

These factors include things like geopolitical issues and engine delivery delays.

But it isn’t just about creating brand new routes, exciting routes and connections to destinations can be improved through airline codeshare partners.

For example, British Airways recently expanded its codeshare agreement with Cathay Pacific to 12 destinations in Southeast Asia and Australasia.

For the first time, the airline is also connecting Heathrow and Manila in the Philippines through this partnership as well.

Perhaps, the most exciting job though is for the person who tries the new destinations.

Rachel explained: “When we introduce a new route, visiting the destination plays a crucial role in the planning process.

“It allows us to check that the location aligns with our expectations.

“These visits enable us to evaluate a wide range of factors in person, including assessing the progress of any construction that’s underway (if it’s a new airport, for example) through to experiencing the
end-to-end customer journey.

“This is to ensure we’re confident that everything is in place and ready to go.”

As a part of this, the airline will work closely with tourism boards, as well as airport authorities and ground partners.

“We of course also engage our operational teams to assess the airport and to ensure everything from catering to cleaning is set up in preparation,” Rachel continued.

And while new routes can be introduced at any point throughout the year, the airline will usually make any exciting announcements before flights go on sale for our winter and summer schedules.

This is usually around the end of October for winter and end of March for summer.

For example, last year the airline launched a winter route to Tromsø, and this winter, it is expanding its seasonal offering with two new BA Euroflyer routes – Rabat in Morocco and Graz in Austria, both starting this month.

Rachel added: “Ultimately, our goal is to fly where our customers want to go, and to do so with the world-class service they expect from British Airways.

“Last year alone, we welcomed 13 new aircraft into the fleet, including the Airbus A350-1000, four Boeing 787-10s, and several A320neo and A321neo aircraft.

“This continued investment opens exciting possibilities for our future network, and our teams are constantly evaluating new opportunities – so watch this space.”

kell no

Jack Osbourne’s furious sister rips into ‘bully’ Kelly Brook after I’m A Celeb row

MUM PAIN

I was arrested in front of daughter for WhatsApp message, £20k won’t erase trauma

British Airways crew also recently told Sun Travel their top European spots – from uncrowded Spanish cities to hidden gem neighbourhoods.

Plus, the insane training regime BA First Class flight attendants have to go through – with strict teapot and pillow rules.

NEW long-haul flights to one of the world’s best cities to are launching from a regional airport – the first time in decades.

Cardiff Airport currently only has one long-haul flight route which is to Barbados.

However, from next year, the airport will be welcoming a new long-haul flight route to Toronto.

Launching from May 23, 2026, the route will be operated by Canadian budget carrier WestJet.

It will be the first direct flight between Wales and Canada in 20 years,

The last time Cardiff had flights to Canada was in 2008.

NO LAG

Jet lag-free islands that are 27C in December to get new easyJet flights

GREAT STATE

European city home to ‘mini Manhattan’ is getting new flights from the UK

However, the collapse of airline Zoom led to the scrapping of the transatlantic route, despite hopes of another operator, Flyglobespan, taking its place.

Jon Bridge, Cardiff Airport’s chief executive officer, said: “This new Toronto route marks an exciting milestone in our growth and a major step forward in reconnecting Wales with North America.”

Chris White-DeVries, senior airport affairs manager at WestJet, added: “We’re thrilled to bring WestJet’s friendly, affordable and reliable service to Wales for the first time.”

Toronto was named one of the world’s best cities earlier. thisyear.

It came in 17th in the World’s Best Cities list for 2026.

Travel writer Emily Webber recently visited the city after Virgin Atlantic launced new flights.

She told The Sun: “The bucket-list destination is now even easier for Brits to reach, thanks to Virgin Atlantic’s new direct service between Heathrow and Toronto Pearson International Airport.

“After touching down, you can be in the heart of Canada’s “city that never sleeps” in just 25 minutes via the UP Express train (£6.70 one way).

“Step off at Union station and you’re surrounded by glitzy skyscrapers, great nightlife, fabulous food and Canada’s biggest natural history museum, the Royal Ontario Museum.

“You’ve even got the stunning Niagara Falls right on your doorstep.”

Cardiff is getting other new flight routes as well.

By the end of 2025, skiers will be able to travel from from Cardiff to Salzburg in Austria for winter breaks.

kell no

Jack Osbourne’s furious sister brands Kelly Brook a ‘bully’ after I’m A Celeb row

MUM PAIN

I was arrested in front of daughter for WhatsApp message, £20k won’t erase trauma

And Ryanair added extra flights to Alicante and Dublin from Cardiff Airport back in the summer.

RYANAIR has been banned from landing some flight routes at a European airport at certain times of the week.

The Airport Coordination Netherlands [ACNL], which apportions landings Eindhoven Airport, made the decision following a slew of late arrivals on Monday and Thursday evenings.

Flights hitting the runway from Sofia, Bulgaria and Pisa in Italy both consistently arrived an average of an hour late.

The official body have since cracked the whip, removing the budget airline’s slots.

“Ryanair is the most punctual airline in Europe. We have appealed this unprecedented, irrational and disproportionate decision by ACNL to the European Commission and the Dutch courts, where we expect it will be overturned,” a Ryanair spokesperson said.

The airline have pushed back against the decision and questioned the claims made by the ACNL.

SI YA

Spanish city with 300 days of sunshine & £2.50 beers named top place for Brit expats

NEW TRACKS

Universal’s UK theme park to get its own train station in huge £6.6bn project

“ACNL are penalising airlines for ATC [air-traffic control] delays that push flights just 15 minutes over their scheduled arrival time which is completely out of whack with the vast majority of European airports where the threshold is much higher and more reasonable,’ the spokesperson added.

“Ryanair has long campaigned for ATC [air-traffic control] reform, but EU Commission President, Ursula von ‘Derlayed-Again’, has failed to take action.”

The Sun Online has reached out to Ryanair for comment.

GROUNDED

It comes just days after Ryanair announced they were set to scrap even more flights across Europe in 2026, and months following their decision to scratch two million seats across Spain.

Earlier this year, the budget airline said they would be cancelling all flights to three French airports –  Bergerac, Brive, and Strasbourg.

However, more are set to be axed, they have confirmed, affecting passengers in summer 2026.

Chief Commercial Officer Jason McGuinness told local media: “We will be leaving several regional airports in France this summer. 

“When you increase taxes by 180 per cent, it makes these airports unviable for us.”

The new taxes will see an extra €4.77 per flight ticket when it comes to short haul flights.

However, long haul flights will increase by €120 (£105). 

Which airports in France will be affected is yet to be confirmed.

Ryanair added that two million seats across Spain would be being scrapped.

This affects all flights to and from Tenerife North, Vigo, Santiago Valladolid and Jerez.

Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary said at the time: “If the costs in regional Spain are too high, I will fly elsewhere.

SEE CLEARLY

Mechanic reveals ‘secret’ button that will defrost your windows even quicker

waltzing off

La Voix’s statement in full as injured star is forced to pull out of Strictly

“We are better off flying at the same cost to places such as Palma [on the island of Mallorca] than flying to Jerez.”

The airport worst affected is Vigo, as the cancellations mean there are no longer any direct UK flights.

A GROOM en route to his £2,000 honeymoon has claimed he was banned from boarding an international flight because of a faint “stamp smudge” on his passport.

South Yorkshire newlyweds Josh, 31, and Eden Reekie’s plan to fly to Thailand in October was foiled when Etihad Airways staff flagged an issue with the pair’s travel documents.

The couple had booked a TUI holiday package to Phuket, forking out £2,400 to celebrate a second honeymoon after tying the knot in 2024.

Staff at the Etihad check-in desk at Manchester Airport “immediately” flagged an issue with both passports, making the couple wait.

After an anxiety-riddled 30 minutes, Eden’s passport was cleared, but Josh was told he would be unable to fly due to his passport being “water damaged”.

Josh said: “The duty manager started checking [the passports] and taking photos of them”.

PETAL POWER

Everything you need to know about Kew Gardens – from play areas to best spots

STARRY EYED

UK train station that looks like a ‘cosmic spaceship’ become a major landmark

“No one told us anything about what was happening, she just turned around and said ‘I’m really sorry but you can’t fly’,” he said.

Ironically, the faint smudge on a 2019 Thai travel stamp left him unable to board the flight.

The revelation shocked the industrial electrician from Barnsley, who said he had used his passport for international travel 12 times this year without issue.

“I hadn’t long flown with that passport so I didn’t think there was anything wrong with it,” he said.

“I travelled 12 times in 11 months with that passport and had no issues.

“Fair enough there’s a smudged stamp, but who’s to say that didn’t happen when they stamped it and closed the passport.”

In a bid to get on their holiday, Josh and Eden scrambled to apply for a new passport; however, holiday provider TUI cancelled their return flight and accommodation.

“We were really looking forward to it,” Josh said.

“We went and stood outside and just didn’t know what to do.

“It’s a very surreal feeling walking into an airport then walking out of the departure lounge.”

With Josh able to get a new passport within two days, the dismayed couple coughed up more cash for a last-minute trip to Cyprus.

They have since demanded compensation from Etihad and TUI.

“I felt really disappointed because there was no empathy or remorse from Etihad Airways,” Josh said.

“I know they probably see it daily but people save up all year to go on holiday.

“We were stressed because of all the money we’d spent.”

Josh said he “couldn’t understand” how one airline staff member had total authority.

“For someone on the check-in desk to just say ‘you’re not going’,” he said.

“How [can] someone have that authority to refuse you and not be able to get a second opinion.

“If it was the picture page, I could understand it, but the fact it was the stamp page just annoyed me.”

Josh said they’d been left “gutted” and described the event as “soul destroying”.

“I just hope it doesn’t happen to anyone else,” he said.

“We’d like our money back. We’ve had no help from TUI or Etihad.”

In response, an Etihad spokesperson said Thailand‘s immigration authorities had advised airline staff “not to board the passenger based on the passport’s condition”.

“A passenger flying from Manchester to Phuket on October 7 was denied boarding due to visible water damage in their passport at the time of check-in,” the spokesperson said.

“Check-in staff therefore did not allow the passenger to board in compliance with regulatory guidance and destination entry requirements based on the condition of the passport at the time of travel.”

The spokesperson said “British passports must be machine-readable and fully intact, with no torn pages, water damage, delamination or illegible details, to comply with Thailand’s immigration policy”.

TUI has been contacted for comment.

Another newlywed recently suffered a honeymoon nightmare when her face collapsed after her trip was cancelled at the last minute.

Gail Morgan, 50, suffered a Bell’s Palsy attack, paralysing the muscles down one side of her face after the £6,000 cruise was postponed just prior to boarding – and then axed completely.

SEE CLEARLY

Mechanic reveals ‘secret’ button that will defrost your windows even quicker

waltzing off

La Voix’s statement in full as injured star is forced to pull out of Strictly

Gail and new husband Pepe Davies, 53, from Wales, had flown out to Miami following their glam wedding only to be told the liner had suffered a “technical issue”.

Gail said “Celebrity Cruises didn’t even inform” the couple of the cancellation, however they were later issued a credit voucher, totalling £2,619.

AN airline is launching its first flight from a London Airport to a city that has been compared to New York.

Condor Airlines has confirmed that a new flight route to Frankfurt will be launching from London Gatwick.

The new route will start from April 2026, with three flights a day.

While Frankfurt might not look like New York at first glance, it has it’s own “mini Manhattan”.

The city’s financial district’s skyline of skyscrappers has led to the moniker of ‘Mainhattan’.

CNN Travel previously said: “Frankfurt looks and feels more like a modern American city than any other metropolis when people visit Germany.”

SNOW WAY

I went to European city named an up-and-coming place to travel in 2026

WEEKEND WONDERS

2 Euro city breaks perfect for a weekend of gorging on food, wine & culture

Being home to more than 95 per cent of Germany‘s skyscrapers, it is now even nicknamed Europe‘s skyscraper capital, with plans for another 50.

For some of the best views in the city, head up the 200m-high Main Tower which is one of the tallest in the city.

It even once was home to Europe’s tallest building before being overtaken by The Shard.

Of course, there is more to Frankfurt than it’s banking district, including its beautiful Old Town.

While stunning, most of it was destroyed during WWI, so the majority of buildings are replicas, leading to its nickname New Old Town.

The most popular attraction in the city is Städel Museum which has “700 years of art”.

And, of course, the city’s Christmas market launches next week which runs from Zeil down to Römerberg and Mainkai,

Make sure to try some local delicacies there too, including apple wine and of course some Frankfurter sausages.

And Frankfurt will be easier to travel to next year as well, with a huge £3.6billion airport terminal set to open.

Until the new flights launch, you can fly to Frankfurt with Ryanair with return ticket from £30.

Future plans will even see trains from the UK to Frankfurt.

Eurostar unveiled future routes that could one day launch from the UK which would also connect to Germany as well as Switzerland and Italy.

There is also a city in the UK that has been compared to New York.

SEE CLEARLY

Mechanic reveals ‘secret’ button that will defrost your windows even quicker

waltzing off

La Voix’s statement in full as injured star is forced to pull out of Strictly

Liverpool is often used to film Hollywood blockbusters like Batman due to its skyscrapers and red brick buildings.

And here is a New York style attraction you can find in the UK.

ANOTHER airline has announced that it will have free Wi-Fi on board its planes from this week.

Emirates, which was voted by Sun readers as their favourite airline of year, in the Sun Travel Awards 2025, will soon feature Starlink on board its planes.

Starlink Wi-Fi is beamed down to Earth from satellites and will make in-flight internet up to 50 times faster than normal.

This means it will allow passengers on board Emirates flights to stream content, game, make calls, work and browse social media.

The airline will introduce the Wi-Fi on 232 of its planes, which is the airline’s entire in-service fleet.

In fact, the first Emirates flight with Starlink is set to take off later this week, with the airline then fitting out around 14 aircraft per month.

Read more on travel inspo

SET SAIL

I’ve been on 50 cruises…here’s the best ship for cruise virgins & a dirt cheap one

HAPPY DEAL

Disney free food deal that ‘saves THOUSANDS’ – our experts see if it’s worth it

Initially, Emirates’ Boeing 777 will be the first aircraft in the fleet to get Starlink and roll-out is expected to be complete by mid-2027.

The airline is then aiming to install Starlink beginning on the Airbus A380 fleet in February next year.

Emirates is also set to make live TV available via Starlink, which will initially be on personal devices before launching on seatback screens from late December 2025.

The Starlink Wi-Fi services will be free across all Emirates flights, no matter what cabin you are in.

Access requires one click and there is no payment or membership needed for using Starlink.

Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline said: “We’re introducing the world’s fastest Wi-Fi, elevating what passengers can expect from in-flight connectivity, like seamless productivity, real-time communication with loved ones, and uninterrupted connection to their digital lives.

“But that’s just one piece of the transformation happening across our fleet.

“Starlink is being installed in tandem with the most ambitious cabin refurbishment programme in aviation including brand new Premium Economy cabins, an enhanced Business Class, refreshed First Class, expanded and upgraded entertainment system technologies, and now, industry-leading connectivity.”

Chad Gibbs, VP of Starlink Business Operations, SpaceX, said: “With Starlink onboard your Emirates flight, you’ll be able to stream, game, and have seamless video calls, just as you can do on the ground.

“We’re excited to transform Emirates’ travel experience and support the rapid installation of Starlink while maintaining focus on delivering overall quality of service.”

Emirates isn’t the first airline to introduce Starlink on its flights.

At the beginning of this month, British Airways also confirmed it would be launching Starlink on board all its planes next year.

BA boss Sean Doyle, British Airways said: “Launching Starlink on both our long-haul and short-haul aircraft is game-changing for us and our customers, elevating their experience on board our flights by offering them seamless connectivity from gate to gate.

“Especially on short-haul, this will really differentiate us from our competitors.”

Back in March, United Airlines also confirmed that they would be adding the free Wi-Fi service to more than 40 aircraft.

And Qatar Airways completed its installation of Starlink onboard its flights back in July – they even FaceTimed a flight attendant to show how fast it will be.

HORROR TOWN

Our once proud town is besieged by masked machete yobs – even cops are targets

CRUEL ORDEAL

I was blinded & my pals were killed by dangerous trend in Brit holiday hotspot

In other aviation news, a budget airline has slashed flights from a major UK airport in a scramble to cut costs.

Plus, a major airline with bunk beds onboard reveals plans to relaunch UK flights for the first time in five years.