Travel firms begin cancelling trips after sudden rule change

Travel firms have started cancelling trips to Spain following the government’s sudden change in the quarantine rules.

Companies have been forced to react to ensure their customers do not lose travel insurance.

But some firms say they will continue operating flights and holidays to areas in the country that have not been heavily affected by Covid-19.

TUI reacted by cancelling all holidays to mainland Spain for two weeks.

The firm said all those going to the Balearic and Canary Islands could still travel as planned from today, although flights before then were cancelled.

A spokesman said: “Due to travel advice change against all but essential travel to mainland Spain TUI UK have taken the decision to cancel all holidays to mainland Spain up to and including Sunday August 9 2020.

“We know how much our customers look forward to their holiday abroad and some will be able to accommodate the new quarantine restrictions, therefore all those that wish to travel to the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands will be able to travel as planned from today.

“Customers due to travel to all areas of Spain between today and Sunday August 9 will be able to cancel or amend holidays and will be able to receive a full refund or the option to rebook their holiday with a booking incentive.”

It also said holidaymakers currently in the country should continue with their holiday.

Meanwhile, Jet 2 has advised customers to arrive for their flights as normal and will continue to operate its scheduled programme with flights to and from mainland Spain, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands.

A statement read: “We are still operating flights and holidays to four destinations in mainland Spain (Costa de Almeria, Alicante, Malaga and Murcia), which are open and are located away from areas which have been impacted by increased cases of Covid-19.

“In light of the updated advice from the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), we are in the process of reviewing options for customers due to travel to these four destinations.

“We are also continuing to operate flights and holidays to our destinations in the Balearic and Canary Islands.”

Picture: AP. Bathers enjoy the beach in Cadiz on Friday.