It is vital for the UK’s economy that London re-establishes its place as the leading European hub for international travel, and that the city is on a clear path to being a global leader in sustainable international travel.

Pre-Covid, international visitors brought £13bn to London’s economy and supported over 300,000 jobs. However, as the pandemic took its toll, overseas visits were hard hit and stood 73% lower in 2020, with spend down by 78%. The UK’s place as a global visitor attraction and trading nation must be rapidly set back on course. 

The UK’s global connections have, historically, been a competitive advantage. However, there are early, concerning signs that other European cities are recovering their international connectivity more quickly than London. Beyond the immediate pandemic question, there are operational challenges including border resourcing, post-Brexit protocols, and airspace modernisation. But there are also opportunities to become a leader in sustainable international travel. From the immediate challenges to the UK’s long-term competitiveness, it is critical to act together now.

Our Coalition for International Travel brings together businesses from across sectors and cities to make the case for the role of global connectivity in the UK, and the capital’s economic future. Read the joint letter sent by the Coalition to the Prime Minister.