ABTA has reinforced its advocacy for the UK outbound travel sector with a parliamentary drop-in event at Westminster, drawing over 20 MPs and peers to discuss the industry's economic footprint and policy needs. The gathering, held shortly after ABTA's Travel Matters policy conference, featured Shadow Culture Secretary Nigel Huddleston and Dame Caroline Dinenage, Chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, among the attendees.
Industry Engagement with Policymakers
The event provided a platform for senior representatives from major travel companies—including TUI, Jet2, easyJet, Royal Caribbean, and Virgin Atlantic—to meet directly with parliamentarians. Discussions centered on the sector's regional economic contributions and its interconnected nature, spanning airlines, tour operators, cruise lines, and travel agents. The UK outbound travel industry supports more than 800,000 jobs and contributes over £52 billion annually to the national economy, figures that ABTA used to underline the sector's significance in every constituency.
Luke Petherbridge, ABTA's Director of Public Affairs, emphasized the importance of sustained parliamentary engagement. “The event was another important day in ABTA’s role in championing the UK’s outbound travel industry,” he said. “We know that travel businesses support jobs and growth in every single UK constituency.” Petherbridge added that ongoing dialogue with the government is essential to ensure the sector remains competitive and continues to drive economic growth.
Policy Priorities and Follow-Up
ABTA plans to follow up with the attending MPs and peers to discuss specific policy priorities, including fiscal measures, regulatory frameworks, and support for sustainable travel. The association aims to strengthen parliamentary engagement ahead of future budget decisions and legislative sessions. This initiative is part of ABTA's broader strategy to influence policy that affects the outbound travel industry, from aviation taxes to consumer protection rules.
The event also highlighted the role of travel in supporting regional economies, with companies like Jet2 and TUI operating across multiple UK airports and destinations. For the MICE segment, the ability to host large-scale events and business travel remains a key driver, as seen in recent developments such as Radisson Blu opening Salzburg's largest conference hotel and AYANA Bali's new pillarless grand ballroom.
ABTA's continued advocacy underscores the travel industry's need for a supportive policy environment, particularly as the sector recovers from pandemic disruptions and faces new challenges such as rising operational costs and sustainability requirements. The association's ability to convene industry leaders and policymakers in one room demonstrates its central role in shaping the future of UK outbound travel.
