Thousands jet off despite economy

3:20pm Saturday 19th July 2008

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Gatwick has had one its busiest weekends of the year as the summer peak period begins.

Almost half a million people have passed through the airport since Friday as schools across the country break up for the holidays.

Spain and Turkey are topping the list of popular destinations for early breaks including with locations including Malaga, Palma de Mallorca and Dalaman.

Frances Tuke, of travel association Abta, said: "People are thinking about their pockets, and where their money is going to go further.

"Some people were really questioning as to whether people are going on holiday in quite the same numbers as they were last year, but it does seem to be the case that they are despite the credit crunch."

Edinburgh is the most popular domestic destination while Orlando is the favourite long haul journey.