Terrorism has changed world travel

Travelling from UK airports has been changed forever as a result of the failed terrorist attacks on hubs such as Glasgow Airport, claims the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

A year after the foiled car bomb attack on Glasgow Airport, passengers have been left with the legacy of heightened security at UK hubs, which has slowed down the process of travelling and annoyed many holidaymakers, according to the WTTC.

Jean–Claude Baumgarten, president and CEO of the WTTC, said: "As far as the security issues are concerned even though the traffic is growing security remains one of the major infuriation of the travellers."

Fortunately for the travel industry, interest in world tourism has grown since falling sharply after 2001 although the current economic climate could restrict worldwide travel, added Mr Baumgarten.

"If you look at the numbers, it took three years to reach the figures of September 10th 2001 but after the tourism industry has been growing at a fast pace," he added.

The latest statistics from the World Tourism Organisation show that international tourism grew at around five per cent during the first four months of the year.