Agents and industry leaders say the easing of restrictions for overseas travel does not remove the need for urgent financial support from government.
Last week’s announcement was given a broad welcome by the trade, but agents said the pace of reopening was not enough to generate sufficient revenue for most in the industry.
Chris Harrison, managing director of Dawson & Sanderson, said: “If the pace of unlocking international travel is going to continue to be slow and convoluted, the whole industry and its primary supply chain needs bespoke financial support.
“With airports such as Heathrow reporting a 90% drop in passenger volume, it’s obvious to see that the industry needs a quicker and wider response to opening up safely.”
Mark Johnson, director of Polka Dot Travel, added: “Sector-specific support is badly needed. The industry has been hit so hard that recovery will take some years. The travel industry should have the business rates holiday extended for the whole year.”
Kelly Cookes, leisure director at the Advantage Travel Partnership, said: “The current situation is not enough to sustain an entire industry without sector-specific financial support and this is still key to survival for many members.”
A spokesperson for The Travel Network Group added: “With furlough coming to an end in September, there isn’t enough trading time to help travel businesses.
“Customers are concerned that in August, countries might move from amber to red, meaning families are more reluctant to travel abroad.”
The calls from agents echoed those made by trade associations and industry bodies immediately after the government’s announcement.
Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer described the easing as “a step in the right direction” but said “the need for government support remains pressing”.
Clive Wratten, chief executive of the Business Travel Association, said the announcement was a “vital kick‑start” for business, but Focus Travel Partnership chief executive Abby Penston warned: “This is not a return to normality.”
Despite the broadly positive response from the trade, representatives of the inbound industry said the announcement “did nothing” for a sector that was “dying on its knees”.
UKinbound chief executive Joss Croft said: “The government must provide more support, including furlough extension and targeted grants.”