Having reliable information on how to prepare for a holiday can help consumers feel more confident to travel, which is why it is an important part of theoffering to both customers and members.

This week they published a new online advice page, about what people need to do to prepare for airport security when travelling this year.

It follows the news that the government has offered some airports more time to implement the new security scanners which will change hand baggage rules and security checks.  

Given that there won’t be a consistent approach to hand luggage security rules across UK airports this year, there is the potential for confusion. They advise consumers that they can’t go wrong if they follow the existing rules. They’re also reminded that they can check with their departure and return airports ahead of their trip. The new advice page can be found here, and they’ll be sharing it with traditional media and across social media.

Ahead of the government’s airport scanner announcement, another topic hitting the headlines has been passport validity when travelling to the EU.

Since the UK left the EU, holidaymakers and business travellers have been informed of the changes they should be aware of. They were in the media and sharing their message on social when passport validity came up again recently. What people need to do is explained in the simple passport and visa web page, and they have assets members can share on social media.

Other post-Brexit changes consumers will need to understand are the introductions of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) and Electronic Travel Information Authorisation System (ETIAS), due in Autumn 2024 and mid-2025 respectively.

They are currently developing some information to share with members and consumers. They were in Brussels this week meeting in person with the EU officials responsible for delivering these changes to get the latest developments. Look out for updates on the new EES and ETIAS content. 

When they asked consumers what they associate with ABTA and its members, more than 80% say "peace of mind", "reliability" and "expertise": this is what they offer when they provide timely and sound advice to help people travel with confidence.