Japan, meanwhile, is finally looking to reopen to tourists by allowing limited package trips later this month, while the face mask rule for air travel to EU countries has been partially lifted.

Elsewhere, headlines are dominated by the governor of the Bank of England admitting he is “helpless" in the battle to curb soaring inflation and warned about “apocalyptic” rises in food costs.

Here are the headlines travel woke up to on Tuesday (17 May).

Summer holiday flight prices still cheaper than pre-Covid

This summer’s airfares to many European destinations remain lower than before the pandemic, according to analysis from consumer group Which? The average cost of an August flight from the UK to Europe booked in March 2022 was £92 compared with £182 in March 2019. (The i)

Japan prepares to reopen to tourists for first time since 2020

Japan will start conducting “test tourism” by allowing limited package tours in May. The country’s tourism agency said these small-group trips would be permitted later this month ahead of a wider resumption of international travel at an unspecified future date. (The Guardian)

Bank of England governor’s inflation warning

Andrew Bailey, head of the Bank of England, has admitted that he is “helpless” in the fight against rising inflation. Bailey also warned that consumers face “apocalyptic” increases in food prices in the coming months when he appeared before MPs on the Treasury Select Committee. (Various)

Covid mask rule partially eased for EU air travel

Wearing face masks is no longer required for passengers flying to many EU destinations, but Germany, Greece, Italy and Spain are among those countries keeping their mandatory mask rule despite the relaxation in guidance across Europe. (BBC News)

‘Nightmare’ as Britons face ‘overcrowded’ Majorca airport

UK tourists have expressed their health concerns following reports that it has been taking an hour to get through security checks at Palma airport on the Balearic island of Majorca. The holidaymakers said that it was impossible to social distance in such a crowded airport. (Daily Express)

Leisure travellers splash out on premium airline seats

More holidaymakers are booking premium cabins when they jet off on their trips despite an increase in fares driven by higher oil prices and demand for travel, according to the latest update from airlines association Iata. (Bloomberg)