Agents have dismissed fears that fresh chaos at Heathrow this weekend, caused by protesters at Camp for Climate Change, will deter travellers.
About 1,500 demonstrators are expected to join a day of action against the expansion of Heathrow and its contribution to global warming, with the airport drafting in 2,500 additional security staff and 1,800 extra police to cope.
The organisers say they have no intention of disrupting aircraft movements. But passengers flying this weekend may be advised to use public transport as protests could focus on access roads.
Kinver Travel Centre owner Sue Foxall expressed sympathy with the motives behind the protest, although she believes it will have little effect on attitudes to flying. “We don’t live in an idealistic world,” she said.
Anthony Goord, owner of Peter Goord Travel in Plymouth, added: “None of our customers has mentioned the protests.”
Traveltime managing director Barry Moxley has warned customers to keep an eye on the news. He said: “I support the right to protest, but wouldn’t support any actions that will affect families going on holiday.”
Justin Francis, managing director of online operator responsibletravel.com, said: “The Government’s plans to expand airports to cope with a predicted doubling of air traffic are insane. But the solution involves a reduction in flights and an increase in responsible tourism.”
Airport operator BAA expected 1.5 million passengers to pass through Heathrow during the protest. A spokesman said: “We’re hopeful there won’t be any disruption.”
BAA won a partial injunction against the camp, but failed in its attempt to bar access to up to five million members of environmental groups.