This archive report was first published on 8 June 2020.
On June 8, 2020, Britain introduced a two-week quarantine for most people arriving from abroad to limit the spread of the coronavirus, a measure roundly condemned by the ailing aviation sector.
The quarantine, which applies to both residents and visitors with some exceptions, aims to prevent a second wave of contagion from abroad.
However, critics question why Britain, which was hardest hit by COVID-19 in Europe and is only gradually easing a lockdown, is inflicting more pain on hotels and airlines by reducing travel from countries with fewer virus cases.
British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair have launched joint legal proceedings against the government over what they called a 'disproportionate and unfair' step.
According to Ryanair chief Michael O'Leary, the plan was 'useless' and unenforceable, and would 'devastate thousands of jobs in British tourism.'
Health Secretary Matt Hancock defended the new rules, stating that 'the proportion of infections that come from abroad increases' as Britain's own caseload drops.
Travellers must provide details of their journey and the address where they will self-isolate to enter Britain by plane, train, road, or sea.
Exemptions are being made in several cases, including for lorry drivers, 'essential' healthcare workers, and people travelling from Ireland who have been there for at least two weeks.
