Thailand, meanwhile, is seeing a recovery in its international tourism arrivals, led by a return of backpackers to the country’s key destinations.

Closer to home, Leeds Bradford airport has abandoned plans to build a second terminal, while aviation leasing companies face a challenge getting their aircraft back from Russian carriers.

Here are the headlines travel woke up to on Friday (11 March).

UK economy bounces back before Ukraine war

The UK economy rebounded strongly in January as the festive impact from the Omicron variant faded, although the outbreak of war in Ukraine is clouding the outlook for the next few months. The country’s GDP grew 0.8% in the first month of the year, indicating a strong rebound from December. (The Telegraph)

Backpackers’ return brings glimmer of hope for Thailand tourism revival

Thailand’s tourism industry is showing signs of recovery thanks to the return of backpackers to the country’s key destinations. International tourist arrivals in Thailand during February recovered to 204,000 after suffering a slump in January, due to the spread of the Omicron variant. (The Guardian)

Leeds Bradford airport scraps plans for new £150m terminal

Leeds Bradford airport has ended plans to build a new £150 million terminal. Airport bosses have withdrawn the proposals because of “excessive delays” and the decision to hold a public inquiry into the development. They now plan to extend the airport’s existing terminal. (BBC News)

The fall of Roman’s empire

Russian oligarch and Chelsea Football Club owner Roman Abramovich has been sanctioned by the UK government over his close links to Vladimir Putin. The move has put the future of the London-based club in doubt after Abramovich’s UK assets were frozen, although the team is being allowed to continue playing matches. (Various)

Aircraft leasing firms face $10bn hit from Russian sanctions

Aviation leasing companies are facing huge financial losses after Russian authorities said they would stop hundreds of leased aircraft on loan to Russian airlines from being returned to their owners. EU sanctions will force the ending of contracts for around 450 leased aircraft by 28 March. (The Times)