There was a crumb of good news for travel on Thursday (15 December) with several outlets picking up on the government’s decision to finally ease airport liquid rules.
Elsewhere, the Bank of England is reportedly poised to confirmed another rise in interest rates on Thursday, likely to inflict more pain on mortgage-payers.
Meanwhile, a Ryanair whistleblower has warned the carrier will not wait for any passengers delayed during festive strike action, while Barcelona’s most famous landmark takes another step towards completion.
Here are the key headlines affecting the travel industry on Thursday 15 December.
Airport 100ml liquid rules to be scrapped
Some security rules on liquids and items such as laptops in airport hand luggage are set to be scrapped. The government has set a deadline of June 2024 for most UK airports to install new high-tech 3D scanners, that show more detailed images of baggage. (BBC News)
Interest rates to rise again
Interest rates are expected to be increased again by the Bank of England as the cost-of-living soars. The benchmark rate stands at 3% and is widely forecast to go up to 3.5% following the latest meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee. It would be the ninth consecutive hike since December 2021. The rate is already at its highest for 14 years. (BBC News)
Barcelona landmark takes another step to completion
Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia will unveil its two most recently completed towers illuminated for the first time this week. The towers of the evangelists Luke and Mark, finished at the end of last month, will be lit up. Another two towers are due to be completed next year and the tower of Jesus in 2026. (The Times)
Ryanair pilots ‘told not to wait for late passengers’
A Ryanair pilot has predicted Christmas travellers and luggage will be left behind during Border Force and baggage handler strikes. Speaking anonymously, the pilot said crew had previously delayed flights to wait for customers and bags caught up in airport chaos, but memo told staff to "never" ask whether boarding gates can remain open less than 15 minutes before take-off. (Daily Mirror)
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