Security alert triggers upsurge in UK holiday enquiries.

The latest terrorist alert has prompted people to rethink their holiday plans and opt for UK breaks, according to a leading domestic operator.

Hoseasons saw a 26% rise in enquiries about UK holidays since Sunday, compared with the same weekend last year - itself one of the busiest booking weekends of 2006 following England being knocked out of the World Cup. Last-minute bookers are "scrabbling" for UK holidays, citing airport chaos caused by stringent security measures due to the current alert. There was a similar spike in demand for UK breaks after chaotic scenes at the UK's airports last August, the operator said.

Hoseasons marketing director Tim Fullam said: "The terrible events in Glasgow on Saturday, and the inevitable crackdown on airport security which followed, has put many people off the thought of flying to their summer holiday destination, especially for those who were witnessed the chaos last August.

"In the days following the incident, we have experienced a huge increase in enquiries, with many last minute bookers telling us they have switched their holiday plans from abroad to the UK.

"It seems that people don't want to have to go through the hassle of trying to get to an airport, go through all the security checks, and very possibly face even more delays because of them.

"The increased demand is going to put pressure on availability in the UK, especially in the most popular areas such as the south-west.

"Whilst our message would be not to panic because of a single incident, those who want a choice of accommodation in popular UK destinations do need to act soon if they are not to be disappointed."
By Phil Davies

Published: 7.7.2007