Last week I was pleased to meet with the Aviation Minister, Baroness Vere, as part of our ongoing and regular engagement with the Department for Transport. ABTA is well respected within Government as the leading voice of outbound travel, with politicians recognising the evidence-based approach we take to raising issues on behalf of members, and also the pragmatic solutions we offer to current policy challenges.

We covered a range of topics including the CAA’s ATOL reform, the importance of government working with the sector on developing a more sustainable industry, particularly around decarbonising aviation and cruise, and the industry’s recruitment challenges and future skills requirements. 

ABTA’s Director of Public Affairs Luke Petherbridge raised similar matters with the Shadow Aviation Minister, Mike Kane MP, this week as he briefed him on the priorities for the sector and the value of the outbound travel industry to the UK economy. With a General Election now likely to occur around 12-18 months away, it is important we continue to engage with politicians across parliament to ensure long-term influence for our sector.

Our leadership role within the travel industry also extends beyond our lobbying and political engagement. It is a fundamental part of our offer to members to drive up and maintain standards across the travel industry. 

ABTA’s Tourism Accommodation Health & Safety Technical Guide is an example of the leading role ABTA plays on health, safety, and security, and I was pleased to launch the 2023 edition earlier this week. Our health and safety team works with members, destination governments, tourist boards, accommodation providers, transport organisations and other tourist services overseas - to help improve health and safety standards for the benefit of travellers, staff, and local people.

The Technical Guide provides destination authorities and tourism accommodation providers with a suggested pragmatic approach to their safety management processes. It is free to all ABTA members. You can request a copy by emailing destinations@abta.co.uk.

Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive