Could “Air Bridges” help to avoid Quarantine for travellers

Portugal is among countries in discussions with the UK about setting up air bridges'' so tourists can avoid being quarantined.

Italy, another country popular with UK tourists, began allowing people to travel in, out and around the country for the first time in around three months on Wednesday.

Most people arriving in the UK from Monday will be told to isolate for 14 days in an attempt to prevent coronavirus cases being introduced from overseas.

Could “Air Bridges” help to avoid Quarantine for travellers

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A £1,000 fixed penalty notice in England will be levied on those failing to adhere to the quarantine, with prosecution and an unlimited fine potentially to follow.

There is widespread concern that the measure will cause further damage to UK travel and tourism businesses, which have been badly hit by the pandemic.

Home Secretary Priti Patel, who will set out the rules on Wednesday said avoiding a second peak of coronavirus will always be our top priority'' and insisted the restrictions on arrivalsare informed by science, backed by the public and will keep us all safe''.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman confirmed on Tuesday that the Government is still looking at the prospect of air bridges'' between the UK and other countries, creating specific exemptions from the quarantine rules.

Reports suggest Boris Johnson is in favour of the plan.

EasyJet, Ryanair and British Airways are among the airlines which have announced plans to ramp up their operations next month, despite the Foreign and Commonwealth Office currently advising against non-essential foreign travel.