Airlines suffer blow as England bans overseas leisure travel

Overseas travel from England that’s not related to work will be prohibited to help curb a resurgence of the coronavirus, throwing airlines into a fresh crisis. The new rules, part of a wider partial lockdown, will apply from Thursday until Dec. 2 and come as the industry struggles to survive a collapse in demand. Airlines hadn’t been informed about the restrictions before the announcement Saturday evening. Carriers were already reeling from the Covid-19 pandemic. They have eliminated jobs, retired older fuel-guzzling aircraft and turned to capital markets and asset sales to survive a slump in travel. Many have slashed capacity further in the wake of the resurgence in Covid-19 infections during the slower winter season. EasyJet said it will operate its planned flights until Thursday. “It’s likely that much of the UK touching schedule will be canceled during lockdown with our planned flying set to resume in early December,” it said. British Airways said it’s assessing the new information and will keep its customers updated on changes to travel plans. “Without targeted support to help protect the UK’s aviation industry, tens of thousands of jobs across the country will be lost,” Heathrow Airport said, calling on the government to put in a place a package of measures including business rates relief for airports and a Covid testing regime for passengers. According to restrictions announced late Saturday, “overnight stays and holidays away from primary residences will not be allowed -- including holidays in the UK and abroad.” All but essential shops will close, as will restaurants, bars and gyms, though schools and universities will remain open.<br/>