'Travel has never been safer': Holiday industry reassures public amid coronavirus outbreak

Despite reports of the virus spreading around the world, travel agents and companies have rolled out a number of flexible options for travellers looking to defer their easter holidays.

National airline British Airways (BA) are among those offering more flexibility for holidaymakers.

A spokesman from BA said: "We recognise the increased uncertainty that coronavirus (COVID-19) may be causing.

"This situation will remain under review and we will continue to provide regular updates. We will do everything we can to help customers affected.

"We continue to liaise closely with global health authorities and government agencies on behalf of our customers. For the latest advice visit the Foreign Office website.

"To allow greater flexibility, and ensure you can book with confidence, we have removed the change fee on all new bookings made from Tuesday, March 3 to Monday, March 31, 2020."

Travel agency company TUI have also issued advice to those dwelling on holiday plans.

A TUI spokesman added: "We know that the current situation regarding the coronavirus is concerning for everyone but we’d like to add reassurances about taking a holiday with TUI.

"We will continue to operate as normal, take all of our customers on their holiday and make sure they have a brilliant time.

"If there is specific government advice to stop going to a particular destination you will get a full refund or the option to change your booking."

REASSURANCE: Despite coronavirus fears, experts say travel has never been safer. Picture: Pixabay

In a statement, Easyjet said: "The health and wellbeing of our passengers and crew is our highest priority.

"We would like to reassure customers that our existing policies and procedures are in line with the guidance provided by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and EASA.

"We remain in regular contact with the authorities and will amend our procedures if and when required if guidance changes."

Why now is a good time to book a holiday?

While many rethink their plans for the next six-to-eight weeks with a view of going away later in the year, travel firms have slashed prices on late spring and summer breaks, opening up the opportunity for many to grab a bargain.

FLIGHTS: Leading airline companies, including British Airways and Easyjet, have amended flights to some countries, but are still taking customers to destinations across Europe and beyond. Picture: Pixabay

What are travel experts saying?

Simon Calder, travel journalist and broadcaster, has said travel has never been safer.

In an interview with the BBC, he said: "It's a wonderful time to be a traveller.

"Globally, of all the risks, top of the risk list is road accidents which claim nearly 4,000 victims a day worldwide.

"It's still the case that travel has never been safer. 

"Yes, the coronavirus is a worry. Yes, each of the deaths has been a tragedy, but it is still not a significant risk, at least in my regard."