Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer has joined the ranks of industry leaders to blast government comments on half-term travel disruption, saying they ‘do not correlate’ with the events of the past two years.
Tanzer hit out after transport secretary Grant Shapps accused airlines and operators of over-selling flights and holidays they were not resourced to deliver.
Some flights have been subject to cancellations and delays, with operational and staffing issues impacting operations in the UK and overseas.
More:Industry leaders blast government criticism of airport delays
Government using aviation ‘as a punch bag’ to distract from own failings
Tanzer said: “The return of international travel after two years of heavy government restrictions on the industry, and minimal levels of financial support was never going to happen without challenge.
“While the vast majority of people have been able to get away on holiday this week, it is of course disappointing for those who have been caught up in delays or who have seen their travel plans cancelled.
“Abta has been providing advice and guidance to customers throughout this time, appearing on national and local radio and TV to put the issues into context and advise consumers of their rights.”
He added: “The comments from the government this week are deeply frustrating and do not correlate with the events of the last two years. Abta, along with the rest of the industry, warned the government time and time again that thousands of jobs would be lost, and the industry’s recovery would be delayed if the government did not provide sector-specific support for the travel industry.
“The lack of recognition from government that it was only March this year when all UK travel restrictions had been lifted, despite furlough being reduced from July 2021 and then removed altogether in September, is particularly disappointing.”
Tanzer said: “We have been in touch directly with the government to share our dismay with ministerial comments this week, and to urge officials to look at how red tape in the recruitment process can be reduced to help the sector.
“It is welcome the transport secretary has committed to engagement with the industry and it is vitally important that any conversations involve the wider travel industry alongside airports and airlines.”