Airlines will still be able to operate flights between the UK and the EU until at least October next year after the European Commission extended the deadline in their unilateral contingency legislation, released today.

Under previous legislation the deadline for this contingency was set for March 2020, but this extension will now allow customers to book their travel further in advance in the confidence that flight schedules will not be affected, said ABTA.

The move follows lobbying by ABTA with key EU destination countries, which promoted the mutual benefits of increasing consumer confidence for next summer’s peak season.

ABTA chief executive Mark Tanzer said: “ABTA has been pushing hard for this extension, which is to the mutual benefit of UK customers and the EU, and we are encouraged that the European Commission has responded today by extending the deadline.

“This legislation was originally passed as a contingency measure in the event of a no-deal scenario, an extension until at least October 2020 will give customers much needed confidence in making their travel plans.”

ABTA said it will continue to lobby the UK Government, EU officials and destinations governments on issues relating to Brexit that are impacting the travel and tourism industry.