Fri, 13 Feb 2026

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 Rain and politics driving up half-term holiday bookings, travel agents say

The Advantage Travel Partnerships says rain plus the political environment is creating a "powerful psychological need for escape".

* February half-term holiday bookings have risen by 9% compared to last year, driven by gloomy weather and a "powerful psychological need for escape".
* Manchester Airport is expecting its busiest February half-term on record with almost 50,000 passengers flying out on Friday.
* Travellers heading to Europe are being warned of potential security delays caused by the rollout of the European Entry Exit System (EES).
* UK passport holders may experience waiting times of up to two hours at passport control in some destinations due to understaffing and technology issues.
* The rise in passenger numbers is adding pressure on the government to forge ahead with airport expansion, despite concerns about carbon emissions.
* Domestic tourism sector is expecting its first economic spike for the year during the half-term break, particularly benefiting businesses in rural communities.
* UK airports are reporting strong growth in demand for travel, fueling renewed calls for expansion at several UK airports.
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