SOUTHEND Airport’s CEO has welcomed the relaxation of Covid test rules.

Boris Johnson has told MPs that tests for travellers before they arrive in England are to be scrapped.

There is also no longer a requirement for travellers to self-isolate on arrival while waiting for a negative PCR test. Instead they have to take a lateral flow within two days of arrival.

Glyn Jones, CEO at London Southend Airport, said the country risked falling behind neighbouring countries if rules were not eased.

He said: “The end to pre-departure tests for UK arrivals is welcomed by London Southend Airport along with any review into the sectors recovery from the pandemic. 

“The aviation industry, arguably the hardest hit by the pandemic, has faced ongoing restrictions with little support from Government.”

Mr Jones has been a leading voice for the industry during the pandemic, and last year criticised the governnent for failing to provide “clear and constant messaging” to the public over travel.

Southend Airport has had mixed fortunes in recent months, with RyanAir ceasing to operate from the airport, but easyJet announcing a partial return.

This week Mr Jones added: “These restrictions impact passenger confidence and come at a cost to the industry, UK economy and travellers. 

“We risk falling behind the rest of Europe, it’s time to get our island nation connected again.”

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