Communications

30/03/2026 The revised Package Travel Directive receives final approval from the Council
 ECTAA welcomes today’s formal adoption of the revised Package Travel Directive by the European Council. This marks the conclusion of an important legislative process and delivers a clearer, more workable framework for organised travel in Europe.
The new text introduces a number of useful clarifications and improvements while maintaining a high level of protection for travellers. ECTAA particularly welcomes the simplified definition of package travel and the removal of linked travel arrangements, a concept that had added complexity without delivering clear benefits to either travellers or businesses. ECTAA also notes with satisfaction that some of the most problematic proposals discussed during the review, such as limits on advance payments and the overly broad “3-hour package” concept, were not retained in the final text.

10/02/2026 Tourism Manifesto welcomes the first EU Visa Strategy

A smart visa strategy is a pre-condition for the success of European inbound tourism. Increasing international visitor numbers is a core objective of the forthcoming sustainable tourism strategy, essential for supporting year-round travel and ensuring the economic resilience of destinations across Europe.
While the Schengen Area remains the world’s most visited destination, its continued leadership depends on a framework that is modern, efficient, and competitive. A future-proof visa policy must make legitimate travel easier, faster, and more predictable for leisure and business travellers alike.