There is some good news, though, with the price of oil falling below the $100 per barrel mark. However, rates of new Covid infection are continuing to rise in the UK.
Here are the key headlines affecting travel on Friday (8 April).
CAA’s warning over airport queues
The UK’s aviation watchdog has written to airports and airlines to express concern over the impact of staff shortages on international travel. The CAA said late-notice cancellations and "excessive" delays could hit consumer confidence. (BBC News)
Manchester airport queues to continue ‘for weeks’
Long queues at Manchester airport could continue for weeks, with some waiting up to 90 minutes, the airport’s deputy chief executive says. Ken O’Toole said chaotic scenes last weekend were an "isolated incident", but added he believed people would prefer to queue than see their flight cancelled. (BBC News)
Dublin airport receives 300 complaints over queues
The Dublin Airport Authority has received 300 formal complaints from travellers over lengthy queues at security in the past two weeks, although fewer than 150 people have sought refunds for missed flights. (The Times)
Oil price drops below $100
Oil prices have dropped below $100 following pledges from the International Energy Agency to release reserves. The organisation – which hosts the world’s biggest consuming nations – will release 60 million barrels following the US’s pledge last week to boost the supply chain with 180 million to ease costs for consumers. (City AM)
Covid admissions now highest since January 2021
The rate of Covid-19 hospital admissions in England has passed the peak reached at the start of this year and is now the highest since January 2021, figures show. Admissions among older people continue to drive the increase, with all age groups over 65 recording rates last seen in the early weeks of last year. (The i)
Cargo aircraft breaks in two after landing
A DHL Boeing 757 snapped in two after landing at Costa Rica’s San Juan airport. Hydraulic failure caused the aircraft to skid after it touched down, stressing the structure until it fractured. No one was injured. (The Independent)
