Jet2 chief Steve Heapy predicts ‘spike in bookings’ after Iran conflict

Jet2holidays chief executive Steve Heapy has said he is pushing to secure a “sharp spike in bookings” for Turkey and Cyprus when the ongoing Middle East conflict ends.

Heapy, who apologised to travel agents for being unable to join them at the tour operator’s annual conference in Spain, said he was “stuck in London” speaking to politicians and the Civil Aviation Authority amid the US-Iran war.

He revealed he is also trying to secure improved rates for hotels in Turkey and Cyprus, which have been suffering from a slump in demand since the conflict escalated last month.

“People aren’t booking to Cyprus and Turkey and cancellations are up,” he said.

“We’re speaking to hotels and trying to get special offers for Cyprus and Turkey. It might not make much difference now, but as soon as the war is over, we’ll see a sharp spike in bookings.”

He thanked agents for their support and said Jet2holidays would continue helping them.

He said he was “gutted” to be missing the annual VIP Travel Agent Conference, adding: “It’s my favourite occasion of the year.”

This year’s event, hosting about 350 agents, is taking place at Iberostar Selection Andalucía Playa.