This is a further update of my article originally published on 7 October. I have added information on latest travel news and bargains. I shall further update this from time to time. For a monthly update on highlights of the cultural and social season see my new Travelsleuth's Diary: Autumn Highlights
Britain's tourist industry is responding to the sudden loss of its expected Autumn trade following the Massacre of Manhattan with a number of bargain offer initiatives. Following the slump in transatlantic air bookings all carriers have cut back on their flight schedules to UK and Europe by up to 30%. British Airways cancelled their New York - London/Gatwick schedule and curtailed their direct flights from San Diego - London. Cash strapped Aer Lingus, Ireland's flag carrier has cut its operations by 25%. Air Canada has mothballed 84 planes. American Airlines, Continental and Delta have similarly slashed their operations by significant margins.
The current perceived wisdom is that present price cutting will not bring back the transatlantic passengers so jobs and schedules have had to go. It remains to be seen however whether an airline breaks ranks in the near future and starts cutting seat prices. The problem is that there is precious little financial margin for the airlines to cut into. Off season transatlantic economy fares which supply the tourist market have been rock bottom for a number of years. I expect that price cuts, if any, will be made on the lucrative 'business' and 1st class fares.
Virgin Atlantic continues to run daily flights to London/Heathrow ex Boston, New York/Newark and JFK, Washington DC, Miami, Los Angeles and San Francisco and London/Gatwick ex Orlando. I consider their service on the Atlantic run, (I have yet to fly Virgin to other destinations), to be unrivalled. Check out their website www.virgin.com for special offers
The situation is very different on short haul flights within Europe, where the cut price airlines are cutting fares rather than seats. Once in Britain, visitors based in London can now indulge in short breaks in a variety of cities served by no frills Ryanair, Easyjet, Go or Buzz. They fly out of London/Stansted; not the most convenient or passenger friendly airport but offers such as Ryanair's midweek flights to Glasgow or Dublin for £4 are unbeatable. They have similar flight offers to Salzburg , Venice and other European cities available on their website www.ryanair.com during the travel period 23 October - 20 January.
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