New research launched today reveals nearly one in five (17 percent) of Brits have missed their holiday altogether in the last year as a result of travel cancellations, with general delays also causing an average five hour late arrival time.

The research, commissioned by leading global chauffeur services provider Blacklane to mark the launch of 38 new City-to-Beach services in the UK, across Europe, the UAE and the U.S. connecting airports and metropolitan areas with beach locations, explores the issues Brits face on trains and planes. It also examines how ongoing travel chaos, particularly during peak vacation times, may impact travel habits this summer.

For Brits opting to stay local, 40 percent will avoid train travel this summer due to the increase in strike action. Confidence in air travel isn’t much better, with staff shortages and cancellations causing worry amongst passengers with almost ½ (49 percent) of Brits admitting stressful airports have the potential to ruin their holiday.

Not only are train and plane issues having an impact on travellers, but the tourism industry too. A report from earlier this year suggests that the staycation industry in the UK is declining after its boom in recent years, with some organisations expecting a fall in bookings of up to 80%.**

James Dow, Head of Market Management EMEA, Blacklane said: “We’re fast approaching the busiest vacation time of the year, and the current travel situation is looking bleak. Ongoing issues with delays in the UK and abroad means people are reflecting on whether the stress of a holiday is worth it as time and money is lost. This ultimately has a knock on effect on the tourism and travel industry. The international seaside and national staycation scene is such an important part of British culture that we really need to keep this alive.”

Despite ongoing travel disruptions and delays, 60% of Brits are planning to travel to the beach up to 10 times this summer.

James Dow, Head of Market Management EMEA, Blacklane, continues: “With confidence in train and air travel at rock bottom, and prices rising, many people are looking for alternative ways to enjoy summer. At Blacklane we see an increase in bookings of more than 50% when there are train strikes. It showcases that for groups and families, we provide an alternative way to travel that provides peace-of-mind, comfort and value. That’s why we’ve launched our City-to-Beach service ahead of the summer as a way for our guests to get out to the beaches with ease. With routes such as London to Brighton, this is potentially a more effective way for groups and families to travel this summer.”

Blacklane is dedicated to providing a peace-of-mind experience that meets the needs of its guests everywhere. The company offers a portfolio ranging from Airport Transfers to City-to-City routes connecting metropolitan areas, as well as Chauffeur-by-the-hour services to address all needs. In addition, Blacklane is one of the safest mobility services globally with only two moderate accidents per 1,6 million kilometers. At the same time our guests don’t need to compromise on sustainability as Blacklane focuses on offering EV cars to guests – already 25% of the company’s City-to-City rides are taking place in EVs.