The findings have prompted national press speculation that the UK government may now hold back on further restrictions as a result.
Despite this, though, Ryanair has issued a downbeat forecast, while there are some surprising bids for city status from overseas territories.
Here are the key headlines affecting travel on Thursday 23 December.
Omicron data to be published today
New data on the Omicron variant is set to be published today – after two studies showed it appears to be milder than Delta. In a move likely to inform Boris Johnson’s decision over any further restrictions after Christmas, the UK Heath Security Agency will release its analysis along with findings on the efficacy of two and three vaccine doses. (Sky News)
Omicron ‘less harmful’ than Delta
The UK government says it is monitoring Covid data after early studies found Omicron may cause milder illness than the Delta variant. Scientists said the findings are good news but warned a big wave of cases could still overwhelm the NHS. The UK reported more than 100,000 new daily infections for the first time on Wednesday. (BBC News)
Failure to vaccinate the world shameful, says former PM
Former prime minister Gordon Brown says the failure to distribute vaccines to poorer countries is a "stain on our global soul". He said coronavirus would "come back to haunt" every country, without a push to get the whole world vaccinated next year. Eight billion Covid vaccines have been administered worldwide, mostly to rich nations. (BBC News)
Ryanair issues downbeat forecast
Ryanair has warned losses this year could be more than double previously predicted and has slashed schedules in response to the Omicron variant and travel restrictions across Europe. The carrier issued guidance forecasting losses for the financial year ending in March to rise from €100-€200 million to a range of €250-€450 million. (Financial Times)
Falklands capital and Gibraltar bid to become cities
Stanley, capital of the Falkland Islands, with a population of around 2,500, is bidding for city status. It is one of 39 towns competing as part of the Queen’s 2022 Platinum Jubilee. For the first time, British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies are eligible. Stanley is joined in the competition by Gibraltar and George Town in the Cayman Islands. (The Telegraph)
