Half of Britons unaware that travel insurance may not compensate for terror threat losses

This figure rose to a staggering 63 per cent amongst 16-24 year olds, whilst older generations were more shrewd with only 37 per cent of 55-64 year olds not realising the potential shortfall in travel cover.

By August 16, nearly a week after new security measures had been introduced, major airlines had cancelled well in excess of 1,100 flights potentially resulting in financial losses for a considerable number of travellers.

Significantly, 14 per cent of Britons said they are more likely to holiday in the UK in the future in light of the suspected terror plot, indicating a lack of trust in the safety of air travel. This is corroborated by over a quarter (28 per cent) of people saying they were not reassured by Britain's ability to respond to travel terror threats. Notably, a fifth (20 per cent) of Britons felt that the security measures put in place in Britain's airports by the government following the terror threat were not severe enough.

Sue Homeyard, Group Director Omnibus services, said: 'The OnLineBus research demonstrates a continuing lack of trust amongst Britons in the safety of air travel following the terrorist threats. Providing the poor weather isn't a deterrent, British tourism levels could experience a boost as a significant number of people consider holidaying in the UK rather than abroad.

'A surprising percentage of the population were unaware of the potential lack of coverage from their travel insurance providers meaning that travellers may experience further disappointment as they learn there will be no compensation for their abandoned travel plans.'

Other highlights from the OnLineBus study include:


• Five per cent of people are still looking for a last minute get away for the bank holiday weekend


• 17 per cent of Britons do not plan to holiday abroad, regardless of the terror threats


• When asked about bank holiday travel plans, 85 per cent had not booked, or were not planning to book a holiday that involved flying


• Men were far more likely than women to see the government's reaction to the terror threats as 'too severe' (16 per cent versus 9 per cent of women)


• 64 per cent of people say that the terror threats make no difference to their travel plans outside the UK