Jet2 has set out how the Government can work with the industry to keep holidays affordable, as well as creating skilled jobs and career opportunities across the UK.
The company held a Parliamentary reception yesterday (29 April), attended by Aviation Minister, MPs, and people from across the aviation and travel industries.
At the event, CEO Steve Heapy said: “Our 19,000 colleagues make our affordable holidays happen. They have helped us build our reputation as one of the most trusted travel brands in the world. It just shows what you can achieve if you back skills, progression and great careers. We want to work with the government so more people can progress and succeed, no matter their background.”
Steve also warned that holidays should not be a luxury reserved for the wealthy. “Nothing beats the feeling of going on holiday and coming home all the better for it. Families plan, save for, and look forward to their holidays all year. It is that one chance to properly switch off and spend time together.
“Yet, even in one of the richest countries in the world, it can be too expensive for some people and that should give us pause for thought. A holiday should not be something that only the rich can afford, and it is vital that policy enables everyone to enjoy that well-deserved holiday.”
The airline used the event to announce two new apprenticeship programmes. The first is a nine-month Aviation Customer Service Operatives programme, creating at least 40 new opportunities. The second is a four-year Mechatronics Maintenance Technicians course, training the next generation of engineers to maintain flight simulators at Jet2’s training centres in Cheadle and Bradford.
Earlier in the day, Jet2 apprentices and Jet2FlightPath trainees attended 10 Downing Street to highlight the need to back apprenticeships and training to advance the careers of people who might not otherwise have similar opportunities.
