Major players have been reporting rises in the prices of overseas holidays and air fares.

Business Editor Ian McConnell reflects on why this is part of a positive story amid broader gloom.

Amid the continuing economic gloom - and there is plenty of that in the UK right now - the overseas travel sector remains a real bright spot.

There has been a steady flow of good news from Scotland’s airports on new routes in recent weeks and months.

And package holiday giant and airline TUI on Wednesday brought some rays of sunshine as it reported record underlying profits.

It has been fascinating to watch the overseas travel sector as it has emerged from the depths of the coronavirus pandemic.

Household finances in the UK have been under huge pressure for so many years, with no relief in sight.

However, this has not prevented the overseas travel sector from being one of the standout positive stories in the UK in these extremely difficult economic times.

Key to this happy situation has been consumers’ prioritisation of travel over other types of spending, as they have endeavoured to make the most of their leisure time and favoured experiences over discretionary purchases of goods. And the long period of lockdowns and restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic appears to have fuelled people’s appetite for travel.

TUI on Wednesday flagged “robust consumer demand”.

It reported a rise in its prices during the year to September 30 and highlighted consumers’ willingness to pay.

The company flagged the strength of demand from UK customers.

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© Herald Scotland