Warning over travel trouble and danger of aftershocks

A POWERFUL earthquake off the Greek islands and Turkey that claimed two lives is causing widespread travel disruption.

The quake came as millions of British holidaymakers are expected to head overseas and air traffic controllers are dealing with the busiest day in UK aviation history.

Abta said Kos Airport had reopened, but warned of delays and advised visitors to the affected areas to follow the advice of their travel provider, local authorities and the Foreign Office.

A statement from the travel trade organisation said: “Customers imminently due to travel to this region will be contacted by their tour operator should it be necessary to discuss changes to their holiday arrangements.”

The Government’s latest guidance for travellers to Greece warns: “Flights and ferry services are being significantly disrupted as a result of the earthquake.

“Please contact your airline, ferry company or tour operator for updates to services.”

Travellers to Turkey are being advised: “There may be disruption to ferry and flight services as a result of the earthquake.”

The Foreign Office also instructs visitors to Greece and Turkey to “be aware of the possibility of aftershocks.”

Travel agent Thomas Cook said all of its 2,682 British customers in Kos and 441 in Bodrum were accounted for.