Johan Lundgren, the airline’s chief executive, said: ‘Following the government’s sudden announcement, easyJet will operate its planned schedule until Thursday and we are currently reviewing our flying programme over the lockdown period. It is likely that much of the UK touching schedule will be cancelled during lockdown, with our planned flying set to resume in early December.’
MPs were due to begin debating the national restrictions today before a vote on the proposal, with the measures prohibiting day trips and holidays until at least 2 December.
Recent changes to the Island’s regional risk-rating system that came into effect on Saturday have left all but one English region classified as either amber or red. Incoming passengers from such areas must isolate for five or 14
days respectively upon arrival.
EasyJet have been operating two regular routes to Jersey from Gatwick and Liverpool. However, these may now be cut.
British Airways have been operating several flights to Heathrow each day. A spokesperson for the company said: ‘Like other businesses, we are assessing the new information and we will keep our customers updated on any changes to their travel plans.’
Despite the threats to commercial travel, Jeremy Maçon, Assistant Education Minister, said airline Blue Islands would continue to operate its lifeline services for students wanting to return to the Island in the coming months (see story below).
A spokesperson from Blue Islands said: ‘During April, May and June, Blue Islands proudly maintained Jersey’s lifeline connectivity with the UK, operating services to enable travel for medical, repatriation, compassionate and work purposes.
‘As before, during these uncertain times, we are ready to deliver services as required, with students also benefiting from our additional hold luggage allowance.’
Ferries from Jersey to Poole remain suspended throughout November, a Condor Ferries spokesperson said. Although their passenger and freight operation from Portsmouth to Jersey and Guernsey will continue to operate as normal six days a week. The spokesperson added: ‘We are able to reintroduce sailings if there is an easing of border and travel restrictions and should demand increase.’
Robert Mackenzie, managing director of the C.I. Travel Group, said the business had not been further affected by the announcement of a national lockdown for England, as the Island’s regional risk ratings had already disrupted their business.
Mr Mackenzie said that further financial support for the travel industry was needed until quarantine rules in the Island were eased.
