Abta is calling for a review of the sale of alcohol in shops and bars, in a bid to clamp down on boozy holidaymakers in the Balearics.
The call for action came during a summit held in Majorca this week, as the government of the Balearic islands discussed “anti-social issues relating to tourism with a specific focus on alcohol abuse”.
More than 80 delegates from the UK, Spain and other countries met in Palma for the summit, which looked at the problems of boozing on planes, and at airports, hotels, clubs and resorts.
The islands already have controversial plans to tackle the problem of drunken holidaymakers, which could see unlimited all-day alcohol banned outside of meal times at all-inclusive properties in Majorca, Menorca and Ibiza.
UK travel companies and organisations at the summit included Abta, Thomas Cook, Tui and Jet2, along with representatives from aviation bodies Iata and the Airport Operators Association.
Nikki White, Abta’s director of destinations and sustainability, told Travel Weekly: “It was good to have a discussion about challenging issues around alcohol and young people’s safety in destinations.
“We’ve also discussed the need to look at the sale of alcohol in shops and bars, the evidence around the issues this can cause and what more can be done in this area. We’re keen to have an ongoing conversation with the authorities about this and look at the evidence available.
She also said Abta will continue its campaigns to raise the issues of excessive drinking on holiday, commenting: “Getting the message out to young people about taking care of themselves on holiday and being aware of what and how much they drink is really important.”
A Thomas Cook spokesperson added: “We support efforts that help to ensure our customers can enjoy a safe holiday and we support appropriate measures to tackle the causes of anti-social behaviour. We will continue to work constructively with all involved to promote responsible tourism.”
The Daily Express quoted police chief José María Manso who told the Spanish press after the summit: “Alcohol should be banned on flights and at airports, the only thing you see is selling and selling more alcohol at Palma airport.
“It’s a shopping centre where alcohol and more alcohol are sold.”
More: UK travel bosses to discuss all-inclusive booze crackdown
