Task Question:
Thanks to budget airlines, many people are now able to travel abroad.
Is this a positive or negative development?

Essay:
Large numbers of people are now able to travel abroad due to the rise of budget airlines. In my opinion, this is a negative development as it can damage local communities and increase health risks.

So, why do I hold this stance? Many communities that open their doors to tourism do so in the hope of gaining economic benefits, but this often does not happen. In many well-known tourist destinations, this shift has led to the collapse of stable, long-term neighbourhoods. Areas that were previously populated year-round have become reliant on seasonal visitors, and local people are frequently priced out of the housing market. Local shops and essential services also struggle as demand becomes inconsistent. For example, in some cities, properties have been converted into short-term holiday rentals, leaving few affordable options for residents. As a result, entire communities break apart, and the social and economic fabric of the area deteriorates over time.

Another reason I believe the spread of tourism through low-cost international flights is a harmful development is because of the ease with which diseases can now be transmitted. Travellers often carry viruses unknowingly, and the speed and frequency of international travel means illnesses can quickly cross borders. This presents particular risks to countries with fragile healthcare systems, where facilities are limited, and patients may not have access to proper treatment. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, international flights rapidly accelerated the global spread of infection, placing enormous pressure on hospitals and endangering public health. Even communities with no direct connection to tourism suffered the consequences.

In conclusion, the expansion of budget air travel has had a profoundly damaging impact on both local communities and public health. Therefore, I believe this is a negative development.