Flights are continuing to operate to Morocco as airlines and operators assess the situation for travellers following Friday’s major earthquake.
But a luxury travel conference due to take place in Marrakech this week was cancelled with many delegates already in the city.
British Airways has added extra capacity by using larger aircraft for travellers wanting to return earlier than planned.
BA said: “We have been closely monitoring the situation in Morocco following the devastating earthquake.
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“Flights continue to operate as planned, but customers due to travel to or from Marrakech before 24 September can change their dates free of charge if they wish.”
Tui’s next flight to the country is due to depart today (Monday) while EasyJet is maintaining its normal schedule, although passengers are being advised to check the status of the budget airline’s services.
Tui said: “We are aware of and deeply saddened by the devastating earthquakes which took place last night about 70km Southwest of Marrakesh.
“To reassure, our teams are currently working on the ground in resort and supporting customers where needed and in contact with local authorities and partners to continue to assess the situation.
“Please follow instructions by your hoteliers and local authorities. If you need additional information or assistance, please contact your Tui rep on the ground, the Tui contact centre or speak to one of our customer support team using the 24/7 Tui app.
“We can confirm that there has been no change in in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advice, customers remain in their hotels and flights are operating.
“We’ll closely monitor the situation and will keep customers informed of any relevant updates.”
EasyJet said: “Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the earthquake in Morocco.
“We are continuing to follow the recommendations and guidance given by the authorities.
“The airports are open and our schedule to Morocco is operating as normal but we advise any customers travelling to check the status of their flight.
“If you are scheduled to travel to or from Morocco in the next few days, and wish to discuss your booking please contact our customer service team.
“Any easyJet holidays customers due to depart will be contacted directly regarding their upcoming trip.”
Luxury travel event, Pure Life Experiences 2023, due to take place in Marrakech from Sunday (September 10) to Wednesday was cancelled even though many delegates had already arrived.
Serge Dive, chief executive of organiser This is Beyond, said in a statement issued on Saturday: “We have come to the conclusion that Pure 2023 cannot go ahead as planned.
“Consequently, we will be offering you all the option of a credit note for Pure 2024, should you choose to request this. I humbly ask you to bear in mind that we do not know if we will be covered by our insurance – and we will simply try to absorb the losses the best way we can.
“My intent is to respect all of your decisions, while doing what is right for those affected in Morocco, our own community and the fabric of the local tourism.
“While some of you are already in Marrakech, counting on us to bring you together as a community, I understand that many of you also feel that it might be inappropriate to visit a place which has suffered much devastation and emotional toll, and that some of you have also made the decision not to travel to the event.
“For those of you who are already on the ground in Marrakech, and have expressed a desire to come together as a community, we intend (with the encouragement and support of the local tourism authorities and our partners) to open Palais Namaskar tomorrow, not for Open House, but for a community driven relief effort.”
CLUB MED posted on Twitter/X: “We express our deepest sympathy to the families of the victims after the tragedy that occurred in Morocco. Our staff and clients are safe, the resort of Marrakech La Palmeraie has not suffered major damage and continues to operate normally.”
The UK government deployed a team of search and rescue specialists, including 60 people, four search dogs and rescue equipment, as well as a medical assessment team on two flights on Sunday.
New defence secretary Grant Shapps said: “This is a devastating time for the people of Morocco, particularly those with loved ones they have lost or are missing.
“The UK has taken a leading role in the international effort to enhance search and rescue operations – moving quickly to deploy our unique strategic airlift capabilities, expert personnel and aid. We stand firmly by Morocco as they get through this terrible event.”
The Foreign Office said: “British nationals who require consular assistance can call British Embassy Rabat on +212 (0) 537 63 33 33. If you are in the UK and concerned about a British national in Morocco you can contact the FCDO on +44(0)20 7008 5000.”
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