Emirates Holidays targets 20% increase in summer bookings

Emirates Group subsidiary, Emirates Holidays, announced the company is targeting a 20% year-on-year increase in bookings for summer 2010, despite a 20% increase in airfares (Emirates Business 24/7, 26-May-2010). Emirates expects strong demand for traditional markets including the UK, France, Germany, Switzerland and Australia.

Emirates Holidays: "Last year's H1N1 health crisis provided a stronger blow to the travel industry, as travellers decided to sit out their holidays rather than risk their health. We lost nearly 20 per cent of our normal business last year because of it. And while it is too early to calculate the exact increase in bookings this summer, we are hopeful of positive returns - preferably a 20% increase. Last year, airlines and hotels were forced to drop their airfares by nearly 30% in some cases. For these companies to survive, it is imperative that they normalise their rates this year. [UK, France, Germany and Switzerland] these markets are especially popular with UAE nationals and their families, along with the Australian Gold Coast, which are family friendly, especially providing activities for kids. Europe is back in demand, despite the ash cloud, considering the euro is weakening and you end up with more value on your vacation," John Felix, Senior Vice-President. Source: Emirates Business 24/7, 26-May-2010.