Gloria Guevara, WTTC President & CEO, said: “The opening of ‘air corridors’ between the UK and the Canary Islands, the Greek island of Mykonos and the Maldives is great news for British holidaymakers and a boost for the hard-pressed Travel & Tourism sector.
“Hard working British families can enjoy relaxing in the late Autumn sunshine at these island holiday hotspots while hotels, bars and restaurants will all benefit from the influx of tourists.
“It will also bring much needed welcome news and a glimmer of hope to travel agents and tour operators up and down the UK, desperate to secure whatever business they can after a dismal summer.
“This demonstrates that travel can resume when, through cooperation and coordination, the correct measures and protocols are in place to ensure hygienic and Safe Travels.
“However, we are disappointed that more destinations have gone back on the government’s quarantine list as this will once again have a damaging impact not only to travellers, but the entire Travel & Tourism sector.
“The current approach with last minute quarantines must change. As COVID-19 has adapted, so must we. We need to learn to live with the virus and replace ineffective and costly quarantines with a global standard testing regime upon departure.”
