As Black Friday approaches, UK travelers are gearing up for some of the biggest airline discounts of the year. This year’s sales promise massive booking reductions on both domestic and international flights, making it the perfect time to plan your next adventure. We spoke with four travel advisors from different cities across Britain to gather their insights on how to make the most of these deals. Here’s what they had to say:
1. London: Target Early-Bird Deals for Long-Haul Flights
Advisor: James Thornton
James Thornton, a travel advisor based in London, stresses the importance of acting fast, especially for long-haul flights. “Many airlines release their Black Friday deals as early as midnight, and the best discounts often sell out within hours,” he explains.
Thornton notes that popular destinations like New York, Dubai, and Bangkok are expected to see steep discounts, sometimes up to 40% off standard fares. He recommends setting up alerts through airline apps and travel websites to ensure you don’t miss out.
“For London-based travelers, Heathrow and Gatwick offer the most options, but don’t overlook nearby regional airports like Stansted or Luton for potentially better deals,” Thornton advises.
2. Manchester: Domestic Flights at Unbelievable Prices
Advisor: Daniel Harper
Daniel Harper from Manchester shares that domestic flights will also feature prominently in this year’s Black Friday promotions. “For those looking to explore the UK or take short breaks to Ireland or Scotland, this is the time to book,” he says.
Airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and British Airways are expected to slash prices on domestic routes. Harper highlights that these sales often cater to last-minute travelers, with discounted fares for travel within a few weeks of purchase.
“If you’re in Manchester, consider flights from Liverpool or Leeds Bradford Airport as well. Sometimes smaller airports offer even greater discounts during Black Friday,” Harper adds.
3. Edinburgh: Family-Friendly Packages to Europe
Advisor: Liam Campbell
Edinburgh-based travel advisor Liam Campbell believes that families stand to benefit most from this year’s Black Friday airline sales. “Airlines like Jet2 and TUI are bundling flight deals with hotel stays, making it more affordable for families to travel to European destinations,” Campbell says.
Popular hotspots such as Spain, Portugal, and Greece are expected to see family-friendly package deals with savings of up to 50%. Campbell advises families to book early in the day and to check for free child seats, which some airlines are likely to offer as part of their promotions.
“Edinburgh Airport has excellent connections to Europe, and Black Friday is the perfect time to grab deals that cover flights, accommodation, and even car rentals,” Campbell recommends.
4. Birmingham: Luxury Travel Discounts for the Adventurous
Advisor: Oliver Bennett
Oliver Bennett, a travel advisor in Birmingham, highlights that Black Friday is a golden opportunity for luxury travelers. “This year, we’re seeing airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Virgin Atlantic offering premium class seats at heavily discounted prices,” he shares.
Bennett notes that destinations like the Maldives, Seychelles, and South Africa are likely to feature in these deals, with savings of up to 30% on business and first-class tickets. He encourages travelers to explore add-ons such as airport lounge access and complimentary upgrades, which are often included in these premium deals.
“For those flying from Birmingham, this is an ideal time to upgrade your travel experience without breaking the bank,” says Bennett. “These deals don’t last long, so be prepared to book as soon as they go live.”
Final Thoughts
Black Friday airline sales provide UK travelers with a unique opportunity to score incredible deals on flights and travel packages. Whether you’re planning a domestic getaway, a family trip to Europe, or a luxurious escape to an exotic destination, the advice from these seasoned travel advisors can help you make the most of this year’s offers.
Mark your calendars, set your alerts, and get ready to book your next adventure at a fraction of the usual cost. With these tips in hand, you’ll be soaring into savings in no time!