Simon Calder

Travel journalist

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Travel in turmoil as Gulf tensions disrupt routes and raise fares
politics Mar 13, 2026, 12:05 PM
Travel in turmoil as Gulf tensions disrupt routes and raise fares
  • The Gulf region is facing significant travel disruptions due to ongoing conflicts, impacting flight operations and travel advisories.
  • Passengers are seeking alternative routes to avoid stopovers in the UAE and Qatar, leading to a surge in ticket prices.
  • Recovery for Gulf tourism may take years, highlighting the influence of global conflicts on travel patterns.
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Middle East flight chaos disrupts hundreds of thousands of travelers
politics Mar 2, 2026, 2:59 PM
Middle East flight chaos disrupts hundreds of thousands of travelers
  • The Middle East has seen significant aviation disruptions due to recent geopolitical tensions involving the US, Iran, and Israel.
  • Major airlines have canceled numerous flights from pivotal hubs like Dubai and Doha, impacting hundreds of thousands of passengers.
  • Travelers need to understand their rights and options for rerouting or refunds amid ongoing travel chaos.
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Cartel violence escalates after leader's death in Mexico
lifestyle Feb 24, 2026, 9:56 AM
Cartel violence escalates after leader's death in Mexico
  • Following the killing of Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader, multiple states in Mexico experienced severe unrest.
  • U.S. citizens in affected areas have been advised to shelter in place due to risks from organized crime violence.
  • Authorities continue to address ongoing issues while many regions in Mexico maintain normal activities.
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Aer Lingus exits Manchester and avoids seat refund responsibilities
business Feb 10, 2026, 7:00 AM
Aer Lingus exits Manchester and avoids seat refund responsibilities
  • Aer Lingus has confirmed it will stop flights from Manchester, affecting many passengers.
  • The airline will not refund fees for assigned seats, creating financial concerns for travelers.
  • Affected customers have options to seek refunds through bank issuers or pursue claims online.
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Rome charges €2 for Trevi Fountain access to control crowds
business Feb 4, 2026, 3:08 PM
Rome charges €2 for Trevi Fountain access to control crowds
  • Rome has rolled out a €2 fee for tourists to access the Trevi Fountain amid over-tourism concerns.
  • This fee follows a successful year-long experiment to manage visitor flow at the fountain.
  • Local residents are exempt from the fee, with the revenue expected to support city-run museums and maintenance.
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Bombardier unveils business jet that surpasses Concorde's speed
business Jan 28, 2026, 10:33 AM
Bombardier unveils business jet that surpasses Concorde's speed
  • The Global 8000 business jet has been certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency.
  • Its maximum flying speed reaches 605mph, allowing significant time savings on long-distance flights.
  • This new jet represents a modern alternative to the legacy of Concorde in private aviation.
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Supersonic travel revival likely delayed until 2050, says Concorde pilot
science Jan 21, 2026, 6:40 PM
Supersonic travel revival likely delayed until 2050, says Concorde pilot
  • The Concorde had its maiden passenger flight on January 21, 1976, marking the start of supersonic air travel.
  • Captain Jock Lowe forecasts that supersonic passenger flights will not become common again until around 2050 due to various challenges.
  • There is skepticism about the public's willingness to pay a premium for reduced flight times, suggesting subsonic travel will prevail for decades.
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Tragic Concorde crash claims 113 lives in Paris disaster
technology Jan 19, 2026, 11:21 PM
Tragic Concorde crash claims 113 lives in Paris disaster
  • On July 25, 2000, an Air France Concorde crashed shortly after takeoff in Paris, leading to significant casualties.
  • The accident was caused by a tire bursting due to debris from a departing aircraft, resulting in a catastrophic fuel fire.
  • The incident prompted discussions about aviation safety reforms and the future of supersonic travel.
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One million rail tickets discounted in Great British Rail Sale
lifestyle Jan 12, 2026, 3:15 PM
One million rail tickets discounted in Great British Rail Sale
  • The Great British Rail Sale offers one million tickets with significant discounts, primarily for advance fares.
  • Passengers are advised to check independent rail retailers for potential savings through 'split tickets'.
  • While some discounts are significant, many traditional ticket types don't qualify, raising concerns among travelers.
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World's busiest air route connects Korean island to Seoul
business Dec 23, 2025, 10:09 PM
World's busiest air route connects Korean island to Seoul
  • The busiest air route worldwide in 2025 links an island off South Korea with Seoul's secondary airport, providing nearly 40,000 seats daily.
  • Major domestic routes in East Asia contribute significantly to global air travel statistics, including routes from Tokyo and Vietnam.
  • The increasing prevalence of low fares illustrates the booming popularity of these air links among holidaymakers and regular commuters.
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Gatwick airport drops bombshell with £10 drop-off fee hike
politics Dec 12, 2025, 11:15 AM
Gatwick airport drops bombshell with £10 drop-off fee hike
  • Gatwick Airport will increase its drop-off fee to £10, effective January 6, 2026.
  • This charge is the highest in the UK and represents a significant rise in fees since 2021.
  • The fee hike reflects rising operational costs and is aimed at promoting the use of public transport.
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Edinburgh Airport aims to introduce US preclearance for smoother travel experience
politics Dec 11, 2025, 1:23 PM
Edinburgh Airport aims to introduce US preclearance for smoother travel experience
  • Gordon Dewar advocates for Edinburgh Airport to implement a preclearance system allowing passengers to clear US customs in Scotland.
  • The initiative requires government approval and support from authorities, with hopes that it can significantly enhance passenger experience.
  • If approval is granted, Edinburgh Airport aims to have the preclearance facility operational by 2028.
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Airlines must compensate passengers for flight delays and cancellations
business Dec 5, 2025, 11:57 AM
Airlines must compensate passengers for flight delays and cancellations
  • Travelers at UK and EU airports have specific rights concerning flight cancellations and delays.
  • European regulations mandate airlines provide compensation and care based on flight distance and delays.
  • Understanding these airline obligations is essential for passengers to claim their rights after disruptions.
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Air India faces scrutiny over safety after tragedy
business Dec 2, 2025, 7:00 AM
Air India faces scrutiny over safety after tragedy
  • An Air India flight tragedy occurred in Ahmedabad on June 12, raising safety concerns.
  • Simon Calder believes that Air India prioritizes passenger safety and expresses no fear of flying with them.
  • Despite recent events, Calder encourages travel with Air India due to low-cost fares and quality aircraft.
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Budget airlines prepare to return to Ukraine after the war
military conflicts Nov 27, 2025, 11:46 AM
Budget airlines prepare to return to Ukraine after the war
  • Passenger aviation in Ukraine halted since February 2022 due to the Russian invasion.
  • Airlines like easyJet and Wizz Air are planning for a return to Ukraine post-war.
  • The tripling of VFR traffic and tourism is expected as Ukrainians abroad reunite with their families.
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CrossCountry rail workers strike over pay and staffing issues
politics Nov 21, 2025, 5:39 PM
CrossCountry rail workers strike over pay and staffing issues
  • RMT union members for CrossCountry have planned strikes on December 6, 13, 20, and 27.
  • The strikes are due to unresolved issues regarding pay and staffing shortages.
  • The series of strikes is expected to cause significant disruption during the busy Christmas travel season.
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New passport rules stir controversy over gender identity in the U.S
lifestyle Nov 18, 2025, 6:00 AM
New passport rules stir controversy over gender identity in the U.S
  • The State Department has mandated that new passports reflect an individual's biological sex recorded at birth.
  • Existing passports remain valid under International Civil Aviation Organization rules, ensuring no immediate impact for holders facing the new requirement.
  • The significant changes have sparked a backlash from LGBTQ+ advocates and may lead to legal controversies in the future.
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Wetherspoon surpasses Premier Inn in hotel rankings
business Nov 17, 2025, 5:59 PM
Wetherspoon surpasses Premier Inn in hotel rankings
  • JD Wetherspoon's Brocket Arms Hotel in Wigan has gained recognition for its affordability and local history.
  • Simon Calder evaluated the hotel after sleeker budget alternatives to Premier Inn amid low demand.
  • Calder's positive experience reflects a broader trend favoring value and cultural authenticity in travel lodging.
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Blue Islands suspends operations, affecting travel plans for thousands
business Nov 15, 2025, 9:43 AM
Blue Islands suspends operations, affecting travel plans for thousands
  • Blue Islands announced the suspension of operations, canceling all future flights.
  • The Government of Jersey and other airlines are working on solutions for affected passengers.
  • The closure underscores the vulnerability of regional air services and connectivity in the Channel Islands.
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Storm Claudia disrupts rail services and creates chaos for passengers
environment Nov 14, 2025, 9:56 AM
Storm Claudia disrupts rail services and creates chaos for passengers
  • Storm Claudia is causing major travel disruptions, with hundreds of train cancellations reported across the UK.
  • Passengers are frustrated with severe overcrowding and flooding issues on local rail lines, particularly in North Devon.
  • The situation highlights the urgent need for modernization and investment in railway infrastructure.
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