AITO Strengthens Sustainable Travel Credentials with New Member Planet Rail

ITO, The Specialist Travel Association, has welcomed luxury rail holiday specialist Planet Rail to its membership, reinforcing the association’s commitment to the sustainable tourism sector.

In the year that AITO celebrates its 50th anniversary, the Association has been actively expanding its membership from both tour operators and agents.

Travel businesses specialising in slow travel and conservation/nature-focused tourism are a primary target for AITO which established its Responsible Tourism Committee – now called The Sustainable Tourism Committee – in 1988. The Committee supports all AITO members and affiliates in adopting and advancing best practices in responsible and sustainable tourism.

Planet Rail has built a strong reputation as one of the UK’s leading independent providers of tailor-made rail holidays, creating journeys that enable travellers to explore worldwide destinations and classic and iconic train experiences.

Martyn Sumners, Executive Director of AITO, said: “Independent tour operators have a vital role to play in helping consumers make informed and responsible travel choices. As travellers’ priorities evolve, we believe that climate change is starting to influence the holiday choices of UK adults, and growing numbers of travellers are actively seeking holidays that combine meaningful experiences with a lower environmental impact.”

“Alongside increasing environmental awareness, recent disruption to aviation networks caused by geopolitical tensions has reminded many travellers of the importance of flexibility and resilience when planning their holidays. Rail travel offers an attractive alternative, combining convenience, sustainability and the opportunity to experience destinations in a more immersive way. We are delighted to welcome Planet Rail to the AITO family in our 50 Anniversary year.

“This year we’re holding our Overseas Conference in Switzerland, a destination easily accessible by rail, further demonstrating our commitment to sustainable travel, encouraging lower-carbon transport choices, and showcasing the benefits of an efficient, integrated public transport network."

Planet Rail’s operations and sales director Ray Huntzinger said: “Membership of AITO enables us to become part of a community that shares our commitment to quality, expertise and responsible tourism.  We know that an increasing number of travellers are actively seeking lower-carbon transport and accommodation options when planning holidays. Interest in rail travel continues to grow as travellers look for more sustainable ways to explore the world, and we believe rail holidays offer a unique combination of comfort, convenience and environmental responsibility.  We look forward to working with AITO members and agents in growing this trend.”

Theadora Taylor Franks, General Manager at Fleewinter and member of the AITO Sustainable Tourism Committee added: “Tourism must remain at the heart of sustainable development. Through responsible tourism practices, both we and our clients understand more, care more, and can have a truly positive impact on the places we visit and beyond. Every operator, business partner and agent within AITO has access to the expertise and commitment of its sustainable tourism council, alongside extensive resources, which help to provide a clear framework for all stages of transition toward a better, more sustainable, future of tourism.”

The addition of Planet Rail further strengthens AITO’s position as the leading voice for independent specialist travel businesses.