Heapy stated that following the publication of the framework, the airline still does not know when they can start to fly, where they can fly to and the availability and cost of testing. Rather than answering questions, the framework leaves everyone asking more.

 “We know how much our customers want to get away to enjoy their well-deserved holidays. We have seen buoyant confidence levels from UK holidaymakers, as well as strong demand for our ATOL protected package holidays and leisure flights. We are trying to run a business so that we can take customers away, but we need the Government to provide us with clarity to achieve this.”

He added that the continued uncertainty that the framework provides, it is with a heavy heart that they have taken the decision to extend the suspension of flights and holidays up to and including June 23 of this year. Where customers yet to travel are affected by any programme changes, they will automatically cancel their booking with a full refund, and their team of travel experts will be in touch to help them to book their summer getaway for later in the year.

 “We have received praise from customers, consumer organisations, media and independent travel agents for our industry-leading and prompt refunding of over GDP1 billion to customers whose travel plans have been affected by programme changes during the pandemic, and we will continue this customer-first approach. Unlike many other companies, we will refund customers if they want their money back and we will not force them to accept refund credit notes.”