Posted on October 23, 2008 by Fiona Hilliard

Families have been warned that they may struggle to find a holiday in the sun this Christmas, because holiday companies and airlines have cut thousands of flights. 

According to research undertaken for the Daily Telegraph, there will be 3.1 million fewer passenger seats available on flights to and from the UK in the final three months of this year. 

The estimate comes from the Official Airline Guide (OAG), a body that monitors airlines around the world.  Many of world’s biggest airlines, including British Airways have opted to ground flights to cut down on their rocketing fuel bills as they battle “the worst trading environment the industry has ever faced”, according to BA boss, Willie Walsh.

Travel experts said demand was surprisingly high from holidaymakers eager to secure their week in the sun during winter.  However, because of the cuts in seats, the number of flights and holidays on offer, popular destinations have already booked out. 

The holiday destinations that are seeing a real fall in demand are the short haul flights and city breaks to Europe, as many families have decided to drop weekends away and half-term breaks.  Families are loath to forego their summer and winter holidays, though.

That’s precisely why it’s important to book your winter sun holiday car hire as soon as possible!  Argus Car Hire is offering excellent rates for early bookers in the Canary Islands, Dubai and Barbados.  Book now and brighten up your winter!