ABTA’s update on Sharm el Sheikh flights

sharm el sheikh flights

ABTA has tonight released the latest update on Sharm el Sheikh flights.

The travel association says in a statement:

Following an announcement from the UK Government tonight flights from Sharm el Sheikh Airport to the UK will resume tomorrow. Additional flights as well as rescheduled flights from Wednesday and Thursday are being put on by the airlines to help the backlog of customers waiting to return home.

Outbound flights from the UK to Sharm el Sheikh are still suspended and the Foreign & Commonwealth Office continues to advise against all but essential travel by air to and from Sharm el Sheikh.

Since Wednesday 4 November, the UK Government has been undertaking ongoing assessments of the security arrangements at Sharm el Sheikh airport.

As a result of the current situation, holidaymakers travelling from Sharm el Sheikh airport will have to follow certain special procedures as set out by the Government, including restrictions on taking hold luggage and the size of hand luggage.

Whilst it is appreciated this may cause some inconvenience, these procedures are being implemented for the security and safety of passengers and its important that passengers follow their airline’s requirements.

Holidaymakers in Sharm el Sheikh who are waiting or due to return home are advised to contact their tour operator or airline in regard to their return travel arrangements.

The Foreign Office has not raised the threat level in the resort of Sharm el Sheikh so holidaymakers who are part way through their holiday are able to continue their holiday and return on their scheduled departure dates.

Their insurance policies should still be valid as the level of advice for the resort has not changed. Should they wish to return earlier than their scheduled departure date they should contact their airline or tour operator for their options. Priority on returning flights will be given to passengers who have had their travel plans disrupted.

ABTA estimates there are around 9,000 customers currently on holiday with its Members in Sharm el Sheikh, but there are also several thousand holidaymakers who have travelled independently.

Those with holidays booked within the next 48 hours to Sharm el Sheikh are advised to contact their travel company to discuss their options. If you have booked a package you will be entitled to a refund or alternative holiday.

If you are not travelling within the next 48 hours you will need to check with your travel company as to what your options are and follow their advice.

Those people with bookings beyond this are advised to wait until closer to the departure date to contact their travel company as the situation is fluid.