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Hurricane Emily wreaks holiday havoc

The Federation of Tour Operators has warned resorts, including Cozumel, could be out of action for weeks, following the devastation caused by hurricane Emily.

Director-general Andy Cooper said the vast majority of its operators have been affected by the disaster and it is continuing to assess the situation. However, he said: “The properties are much better than we expected, with many suffering only superficial damage.”

Around 9,000 UK holidaymakers were moved to shelters last weekend, although no injuries have been reported. The storm has affected resorts across Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Cooper advised agents to check with operators for updates, as conditions varied from property to property.

Cosmos cancelled its flight to Cancun last Sunday, and said it has yet to make a decision about July 24. Thomas Cook Airlines postponed its Sunday Gatwick service to Cancun until July 19.

However, its aircraft flew out of the UK empty in order to bring back some holidaymakers.

Thomas Cook also cancelled flights from Manchester and Birmingham to Cancun on July 20, after a 48-hour delay. The company said it expects things to be back to normal from July 24.

First Choice Airways cancelled three UK-Mexico flights last week, and repatriated 774 passengers on three flights on Tuesday but will not resume regular services until further information is gathered.

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