In the event of a no-deal exit, UK airlines were previously given permission to operate flights to and from the EU until March 2020.

This deadline has now been extended until “at least” to 24 October, which Abta said would give consumers confidence to book in the knowledge next summer’s flight schedules are unlikely to be affected by a no-deal Brexit.

“This extension will allow customers to book their travel arrangements further in advance,” said Abta.

Chief executive Mark Tanzer added: “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 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.”