Value of leisure flights to UK economy highlighted by new report
A new report shows that leisure flights contribute £14.1 billion a year to the UK economy and account for 1.1% of GDP.
Unveiling the findings at its annual Travel Matters conference in Westminster, ABTA said the report – prepared on its behalf by Cebr – showed leisure aviation contributed £36.1 billion to the wider economy.
It said leisure aviation, which includes holiday travel and those visiting friends and relatives, supported around 289,000 full-time jobs, or around 1.2% of total UK employment.
ABTA CEO Mark Tanzer said: "With decisive action needed on aviation capacity, it’s vital that the Government takes into account all aviation needs.
"Leisure aviation is often seen as a lesser priority to business aviation, partly because until now there has been little research into this area; however these figures confirm the important contribution made by leisure aviation.
"Whatever plans the Government decide on for the future of aviation, it is vital that these plans take into account the UK’s unique aviation mix, whether it comprises cargo, business or leisure travel."
The full Cebr report will be presented to the Airports Commission on July 9 when Tanzer will give evidence in Manchester.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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