Summer getaways can begin: New quarantine rules in place

LONDON — The traditional British summer getaway to the sunsoaked beaches of the Mediterranean Sea was set to pick up steam Friday as U.K. quarantine restrictions were removed from dozens of countries, including France, Greece and Italy.

But with many flights still canceled, holiday resorts still working on ensuring they are COVID19-safe and many potential holidaymakers reluctant to make a trip abroad in light of the pandemic, Britain’s airports are much less busy than they would be in any other year.

However, last week’s announcement by the British government to ease its quarantine requirements for anyone arriving back in England has given some enough of a nudge to take the plunge.

“We probably would have gone later,” said Ray Gordge, 64, at Gatwick Airport’s North Terminal, south of London.

“It’s exciting; I’m pleased the quarantine has been lifted, to be honest,” said Gordge, who was on his way to Paris to see his daughter for the first time in six months and meet his new grandson born last week.

As of Friday, anyone arriving back in England from around 75 countries and territories won’t have to self-isolate for 14 days.

The aviation and travel industries are hoping that the new rules will help them salvage part of the summer holiday booking season that has been so battered by the restrictions imposed during the coronavirus pandemic — thousands of people have lost their jobs as business ground to a halt.

The crucial period will be later this month after schools formally close for the summer and travel companies and airlines start ramping up operations. Confidence is key, though, and is susceptible to any new outbreaks that may start appearing over the coming weeks.

Gatwick Chief Executive Stewart Wingate said the relaxation of the rules can make a “massive difference,” given that around three-quarters of the destinations the airport serves are now free from quarantine requirements.

“From a consumer point of view, what we’re hoping is that will persuade people to take advantage of the flights,“he said.

The list does not include the United States, which is still considered high-risk.

MATT DUNHAM / ASSOCIATED PRESS Britain’s airports are much less busy than they would otherwise be, but the traditional summer getaway to sun-drenched beaches was set for a revival Friday as quarantine restrictions were removed for dozens of countries.