The president of the Aviba travel agencies association in the Balearics, Pedro Fiol, says the prices of flights have risen 15% and that "if you want to travel this summer, book now".
Fiol points out that the uncertainty generated by the war in the Middle East and by price hikes is preventing many people from booking holidays months in advance. "There is a high degree of uncertainty, and right now many Mallorcans don't know what kind of trip they will be able to afford in a few months. Therefore, even though they are advised to buy flights in advance, they are not in a position to do so."
Flights to Asia have seen the biggest price increases, while the impact on flights to Asia is great, as 70% of operations from Europe have been suspended. "This year was going to be spectacular for Asia; there was enormous demand. However, the conflict has dashed those expectations." Airlines are unable to use airports such as Dubai for stopovers.
Fiol explains that there is increasing demand for package holidays: "You can book for very little money and avoid potential price hikes." "Package holidays offer peace of mind for long-haul destinations and payment terms that mean customers don't have to pay large sums of money upfront."
He was speaking before the announcement of the two-week ceasefire, an immediate impact of which was a fall in oil prices. But market analysts and airlines say that it will take time for prices of flights to come down, always assuming the ceasefire holds and that there is an eventual return to some normality.