The aviation industry is still yet to fully recover from the coronavirus pandemic. In fact, the industry may not get back to “normal” until 2023. But there’s something special about the Hampton by Hilton Exeter Airport hotel and its team.
They don’t just keep going. They create opportunities in the face of global challenges. They help their community. All while functioning as a warm, friendly, and profitable hotel.
Here’s a look at what the hotel has weathered since the pandemic hit:
April 2020
In a quick 2-week period of time, the hotel secured a Care Quality Commission Consent to operate outside of a hotel remit. They then contracted the hotel for 2 months servicing the local council.
July 2020
After the first lockdown ended, the hotel was full for 10-12 weeks.
September 2020
As the second lockdown hit, the hotel pivoted to help UK Government, UK Military, and Nightingale Hospital staff in need of rooms and beds.
January 2021
Authorised domestic and international travel meant the hotel was unaffected by the winter lockdown.
While corporate travel is restricted, leisure segments are really busy. Propiteer Hotels director Richard Martin admits “We have a very close relationship with local authorities. Plus, we’re really helped by the fact we’re part of a global brand. Hilton’s global engine has been part of why we’re so effective.”
March 2021
The hotel takes care of hundreds of students and residents from Exeter city centre that have been evacuated due to the discovery of a 1,000kg German WW2 bomb [link]
June 2021
The hotel is visited by Simon Jupp, MP for East Devon. Simon sits on the Transport Select Committee and has a strong interest in Exeter airport and supporting the aviation industry into recovery.
June 2021
Hosted overspill from the G7 summit in Cornwall – which brought the world’s leading democracies together. 500 policemen from UK were brought into the event, and UK Government agencies and security services made use of the hotel for longer than the 3 days advertised.
July 2021
95% of Flybe routes have been recovered. Now, five airlines are operating out of Exeter Airport rather than just one. Exeter Airport also confirms TUI are resuming flights to Majorca along with Spain, Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey. More routes and more passengers flying out of the UK means more stays and higher occupancy at Hampton by Hilton Exeter Airport.
August 2021
Strong, pent-up demand for getaways and travel (both domestic and international) has lead to record revenues throughout June, July and August.
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