The Business Travel Association has written to Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak reminding them of the importance of the sector.

In the letter, BTA chief executive Clive Wratten said: “Business travellers are not just ‘people in suits’, they are humanitarian aid workers, engineers, scientists, education providers and researchers. 

“They are the people who create deals and relationships which drive international trade and represent the best of British businesses on the world’s stage.”

Wratten said business travel accounted for 15-20% of airlines’ customer base “and on some routes can represent 75% of an airline’s profits”.

The BTA said it was “deeply concerned” about ongoing disruption. “A combination of rising fuel costs, strike action, delays at airports and increasing skill shortages remain a threat as business workers are put off or unable to travel by air or rail for work.

“According to our figures, rail use for business travel in August remains at just 30% compared to August 2019 levels and despite an increase in people flying internationally for business, the UK’s GDP continues to be impacted.”

He called on the government to minimise disruption from strikes, fuel costs and skills shortages and for it to promote face to face meetings. The BTA also called for more support for sustainable aviation technologies and fuels.