Package holiday preference emerges in latest Jet2 consumer poll

People are increasingly seeking the assurance of a package holidays “during times of uncertainty”, according to Jet2.

Data from a May poll of more than 1,000 consumers shows a “significant increase” in customers opting for the protection of a package holiday, in addition to the “all-in-one benefits” of booking through one trusted provider. 

The number of people choosing a package as their preferred method of booking has risen five percentage points to 51% since February.

In the same period, the number of people preferring to book through different providers has dropped by six percentage points to 20%. Those choosing ‘accommodation only’ has dropped to 2%.

The primary reasons for choosing a package holiday have remained steady, with value (36%) and ease (36%) the main drivers.

However the benefit of ‘added security with one provider, e.g. Atol/Abta protection’ has increased by four percentage points since February to 26%, the owner of the UK’s largest tour operator and third largest airline found.

Jet2 became the first UK airline and tour operator to confirm it will not introduce surcharges on any booked flights or holidays to cover cost increases, for example jet fuel.

The company confirmed that it has removed the surcharge provision across all flights and holidays, even though the company has never previously applied them.

Jet2 has also said that it plans to operate its scheduled programme as normal. 

Chief executive Steve Heapy said: “Consumers want assurance during times of uncertainty and package holidays provide that assurance.

“On top of all the protection that our package holidays guarantee, Jet2 is well known as being a consumer champion that goes above and beyond to look after customers.

“Ahead of a busy summer season, this means new and existing customers know that their well-deserved holidays are in the very best hands with us, and we are very excited about welcoming everyone onboard and taking them on their breaks.”

Meanwhile, Jet2 has introduced new routes to Jersey from Birmingham and Bristol for next summer while raising capacity from Manchester.   

The summer season has also been expended, meaning the company will operate to Jersey until the end of October. 

Jet2 already operates to the island from East Midlands, Leeds Bradford and Newcastle airports in addition to Manchester.