Covid-19: Long queues at Heathrow as Britons flee UK before second lockdown
Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 is busy with travellers this morning as Britons are taking advantage of the final day before the national lockdown to take flights out of Heathrow.
From today, international flights out of the UK for holiday purposes will be banned to help bring down the Coronavirus infection rates.
But pictures taken this morning show long queues at the airport’s Terminal 5.
From today November 5 to December 2, foreign holidays and overnight stays anywhere in the UK will not be allowed.
A ban on foreign holidays comes into force today.
Travellers are preparing to leave the UK before the new Covid lockdown begins tomorrow.
People returning from holidays will still be allowed to travel into England, but they may have to quarantine and should check the restrictions in place.
The government website states: ‘Overnight stays and holidays away from primary residences will not be allowed.
‘This includes holidays abroad and in the UK.
The lockdown will last from November 5 to December 2 but it could be extended.
Strict social distancing measures are in place inside the airport.
‘It also means you cannot stay in a second home, if you own one, or staying with anyone you do not live with or are in a support bubble with.
‘There are specific exceptions, for example if you need to stay away from home (including in a second home) for work purposes, but this means people cannot travel overseas or within the UK, unless for work, education or other legally permitted reasons.’
British nationals currently abroad do not have to return home immediately, but they are advised to check with their airline on arrangements for returning. (Metro)