Posted 19 Dec 2008

Airports across the country are bracing themselves for the annual Christmas exodus, with millions of people preparing to travel over the coming days.

The Association of British Travel Agents (Abta) estimates that three million Brits will jet abroad over the Christmas and New Year period, with figures suggesting that despite the economic downturn, people are reluctant to put their holidays on the back burner.

More than a million people will pass through Heathrow Airport, with Gatwick, Stansted and Manchester also expected to handle hundreds of thousands of travellers.

Abta president Justin Fleming commented: "Holidays – especially at this time of year – are considered to be so much more than a luxury. They provide a valuable time to unwind and spend quality time with family."

Meanwhile, a street poll carried out by Adfero last week revealed that 80 per cent of people do not expect the credit crunch to have an impact on their gap year travel and holiday plans.

Category: General Travel