Airport nerves – but it’s plane sailing

OUR Holiday Hero NEIL SIMPSON was among the first to fly the Atlantic after Covid restrictions lifted. Here, he reports on how it went – and what you need if you’re off soon.

WE’RE at Heathrow check-in and the chat reveals that, like me, everyone is nervous about the new rules, with piles of paperwork and phones at the ready to prove vaccination status and test results. But after a few questions at the desk and a quick look at a couple of screenshots, it is off to security, boarding pass in hand. On board, my flight seems full of 50-plus couples and solo travellers, many of whom are heading west to see grown-up children or new grandchildren.

Things are even easier at US immigration. Covid doesn’t get a mention. A quick ‘What is the purpose of your visit?’, a satisfying stamp in the passport and it is on to baggage reclaim. After a night’s sleep, the stress is forgotten, and trust me: breakfast in America tastes better than ever! As for Covid requirements, all over-18s must be at least double-jabbed, with the second at least 14 days before flying. US immigration accepts the NHS app, website or official certificates as proof.

Under-18s do not need to be vaccinated, but everyone must have a negative result from a test taken within three days of departure. Under-twos are exempt from all rules. Before you return, a Passenger Locator Form for UK Border Agency must be filled in. You also need to book a test to take on or before day two of your return. Details at gov.uk/ foreign-travel-advice.