We were all shocked to learn about the Omicron Covid variant.
Again, restrictions are being placed on freedoms the people used to consider as a given, much like what the aviation industry is doing.
13 percent was taken off airline shares within hours of their announcement.
Whitehall recently announced restrictions that require passengers traveling from abroad to be isolated at home while waiting for the outcome of a PCR test. Pictured: On November 28, 2018, travellers at London Heathrow Airport Terminal Two
Whitehall has since announced new restrictions, including a requirement for passengers returning from abroad to isolate at home until the result of a PCR test taken by Day 2 — at their own expense.
Bookings have slowed (though not as much as on previous occasions), with many people — who understandably don’t want the stress of any new restrictions or the cost of testing — moving trips forward to early 2022.
However, it is important to minimize the risk from any new variant. This includes countries at high risk. To make educated decisions, scientists need to be able to fully understand Omicron.
However, I doubt that we have enough information to justify the need for new tests on every passenger returning from overseas.
With many travelers moving forward into 2022, bookings are slowing. Pictured: Passenger at Heathrow Terminal 5 on November 28
Europe is a place where cases are rare. Even people arriving from foreign countries are being quarantined for their Day 2 results.
It makes no sense. Again, it seems that the UK is out of tune with its neighboring countries.
Ministers need to ensure data is used in support of their decisions and that the precautions taken are proportional to the danger.
The blanket PCR testing should be stopped as quickly as possible. However, the passengers shouldn’t have to pay for the testing. It is unjust for a nation who has been through so much.
Going forward, there is a huge opportunity for growth for easyJet — and we will do all we can to help holidaymakers.
We can only deliver if we remove all barriers that prevent people from flying to other countries.