Covid-19 briefing

5.2%

Unemployment in OECD nations stood at 5.2% in February, a marginal decline from 5.3% in the previous month.

6.8%

The unemployment rate in the Euro area stood at 6.8% in February 2022, a decline from 6.9% in January 2022

IMPACT ON AIRLINES

Masses of UK travellers have flocked to British airports in recent weeks, as governments across Europe continue to relax Covid-19 restrictions. However, thousands of flights have been cancelled in April, ruining holiday plans for tens of thousands of passengers.

In one day alone, British Airways and easyJet cancelled more than 100 flights. In the US, low-cost carriers like Southwest and Spirit were also forced to cancel flights, and JetBlue and Alaska Airlines announced reductions to upcoming flight schedules.

Many players in the aviation industry planned inefficiently for
travel’s comeback, which means they have not been able to cope with a sustained surge in demand.

Airports have also caused passengers to miss their flights and experiences to turn sour. A lack of staff in security roles has contributed to the disruptions experienced at British airports.

IMPACT ON INTERMEDIARIES

Domestic tourism remains an area of intense focus and has led to significant price surges in some markets.

However, travel intermediaries are engaging in aggressive marketing towards international travel with some advertising for as late as 2023 to increase revenue.

Even though many borders are re-opening, the pandemic's uncertainty means that many will opt for a staycation in 2022.

Key Travel And Tourism  developments