Airport tests ‘ took much longer than expected’

A GLASGOW Airport boss has said that the new government scheme requiring travellers to provide a negative Covid- 19 test before they can enter Scotland has taken “much longer than expected”.

During yesterday’s briefing, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon revealed that the Scottish Government is currently working with other parts of the UK to confirm the exact start date for the new move, but that it is likely to be from the end of next week.

Derek Provan, chief executive of AGS Airports, which owns Glasgow Airport, said: “We have been calling for the introduction of an effective testing regime for months as it is the only way to safely re- establish connectivity whilst protecting the public from high- risk arrivals.

“Whilst it is encouraging that government has now decided to put such a scheme in place, it has taken much longer than expected. Our industry has been devastated by this pandemic and has effectively been shut down for close to one year.

“If we are to be in any position to support our country’s and the economy’s recovery from the crisis, it’s vital government provides much needed sectorspecific support.”

The negative tests will not replace existing quarantine requirements.

A Scottish Government spokesman said: “Officials continue to support the aviation industry, and as part of our business support package, we have provided business rates relief for aviation, airports and ground- handling providers.

“We are working with airports on route recovery, to help rebuild connectivity for business and tourism and win back routes and employment opportunities.”