TUI have cancelled all flights to mainland Spain following the government's decision to impose quarantine rules on those returning from the country.
The Scottish Government announced the move last night which means Scots returning from Spain will have to quarantine for 14 days upon return, following a recent spike in coronavirus cases in the country.
Airline and holiday company TUI say they are 'incredibly disappointed' by the decision, taken by both UK and Scottish Governments.
TUI's managing director for the UK and Ireland, Andrew Flintham, said: "We're incredibly disappointed that we didn't get more notice of this announcement, or that this decision wasn't made yesterday, as many Brits travel on holiday at the weekend.
"We also look to understand why quarantine has been issued for a whole country, including the Canary Islands and Balearic Islands, when the travel advice isn't aligned".
A statement released by the airline confirmed: "Due travel advice change against all but essential travel to mainland Spain TUI UK have taken the decision to cancel all holidays to mainland Spain up to and including Sunday 9th August 2020. We know how much our customers look forward to their holiday abroad and some will be able to accommodate the new quarantine restrictions, therefore all those that wish to travel to the Balearic Islands and Canary Islands will be able to travel as planned from Monday 27th July.
“Customers due to travel to all areas of Spain between 27th July and Sunday 9th August will be able to cancel or amend holidays and will be able to receive a full refund or the option to rebook their holiday with a booking incentive. We will proactively contact all these customers. Customers with holidays from 10th August will be updated on Friday 31st July. All customers currently on holiday can continue to enjoy their holiday and will return on their intended flight home.
“We will continue to work closely with the UK Government and look to understand why quarantine has been issued for a whole country, including the Canary Islands and Balearic Islands, when the travel advice isn’t aligned (only applying to mainland Spain). We believe regional travel corridors need to be considered.
“The health and safety of our customers and colleagues is always our highest priority and welcome travel advice that protects those that holiday with us. However, the UK Government must work closely with the travel industry as this level of uncertainty and confusion is damaging for business and disappointing for those looking forward to a well-deserved break.”
Nicola Sturgeon has urged Scots to exercise caution over non essential foreign travel, warning: "Having reviewed the latest data earlier today, @scotgov is also reimposing 14 day quarantine for travellers returning from Spain.
"This reinforces the point that these matters are subject to change at short notice and so my advice is to be cautious about non essential foreign travel."
