Gatwick’s economic warning and firms facing ‘financial disaster’

Business groups have also called for the government to urgently offer support to companies who may struggle to survive the enormous increases in their energy and other costs.

Eurotunnel passengers, meanwhile, were forced to walk through the Channel Tunnel after a train broke down, while the decision on the future of Doncaster Sheffield airport has been delayed by its owner.

Here are the headlines the travel industry woke up to on Wednesday (24 August).

Gatwick warns of threat to aviation

The Sussex airport has warned that the travel industry’s recovery from the pandemic is under threat from economic headwinds, such as high inflation, despite raising its forecast for passenger numbers in 2022. (Financial Times)

Firms face financial disaster

Viable businesses in the UK will be forced to the brink of collapse unless the government provides urgent help with the energy crisis, warn some of the country’s major business groups. (The Times)

Passengers stuck for hours inside Channel Tunnel

Holidaymakers were left stranded for hours inside the Channel Tunnel after a Eurotunnel train from Calais to Folkestone broke down. Footage showed Le Shuttle passengers walking along an emergency service tunnel between the UK and France after the train was evacuated. (BBC News)

Decision on Doncaster Sheffield airport closure delayed

The owner of Doncaster Sheffield airport has extended its consultation process into the future of the site. The Peel Group had originally planned a six-week review process but this has now been extended to 16 September. (ITV News)

Jet2 issues travel warning for Brits going on holiday this summer

The airline and tour operator has updated its social media to warn consumers against common scams, such as emails from fake accounts offering Covid tests and giving false booking and contact information. (The Sun)

Eurostar says trains will not stop in Kent for ‘two to three years’

Eurostar trains will not stop in Kent for up to three years, according to the company. The rail operator blamed the decision on Brexit, which had “toughened” border restrictions, and its financial recovery from the pandemic. (The Telegraph)