The Week In Travel

UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt’s budget announcement was met with criticism from the aviation and tourism sectors following the reveal of a one-time hike in Air Passenger Duty (APD) on non-economy flights. APD rates will rise in April, with a premium and business-class increase in 2025. Critics are concerned about the economic consequences of this decision and have argued that it goes against the Prime Minister’s commitment not to discourage flying.

Remaining on the continent, ACI EUROPE has reported that European airport traffic surged in January 2024, with international passengers reaching pre-pandemic levels for the first time since the outbreak of the pandemic. Overall, passenger numbers rose by 7%, driven by transatlantic demand and the return of Chinese travellers. London Heathrow remained the busiest European airport in January, with Istanbul Airport a close second.

In technology news, UK-based Hybrid Air Vehicles (HAV) has started the process to certify its Airlander 10 hybrid airship with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). This marks a significant milestone as it seeks to secure the first approval for a large aircraft from the regulator since 1979. The Airlander 10 is powered by both aerostatic and aerodynamic lift, and HAV intends for it to become the world’s most efficient large aircraft.

Across the pond, JetBlue has terminated its merger deal with Spirits Airlines after a US judge blocked the deal siting anti-competition concerns in January. The proposed $3.8 billion deal aimed to challenge major US carriers, but has faced many obstacles over the past two years. Although Spirit’s stockholders approved the merger last October, both airlines deemed termination as the best course due to regulatory hurdles. JetBlue will compensate Spirit with $69 million.

And finally, a new trend is taking over in Tokyo - Capybara cafes. A step up from the ‘cat cafes’ that have become popular worldwide in recent times, travellers are making their way into the Japanese capital to visit new cafes that allow diners to eat their favourite hot drinks alongside the world’s largest known rodent. Their website advertises the Capybara café as a cosy place to relax, taking in the animal’s naturally calm and docile appearance. It’s the perfect place to go if you want a ‘capy-cino’!