Discussions about an air bridge between London and New York could result in quarantine-free travel between the two cities.
It has been nearly seven months since the beginning of lockdown, and our travel plans are still being rudely interrupted by coronavirus. Both national and international travel are proving a great feat at the moment, with many countries closing their borders and implementing quarantine regulations.
SEE ALSO: Not being able to travel is officially making us more anxious, survey finds
As it stands, Brits are completely prohibited from entering the US, whilst Americans can visit the UK but must quarantine for a fortnight upon arrival. Our luck may be changing though, as “senior level” talks between American officials and the UK government are raising the prospect of an air bridge between London and New York – which could be in place as soon as November. This would permit travel between the two cities with no self-isolation period afterwards, essentially creating a travel corridor.
Last month, a source told The Telegraph that “There are discussions going on at a very senior level around opening up London and New York. They are at a very early stage but it is vital to get business going with a major trading partner especially as we near Brexit.”
“Public health remains the UK’s top priority and we are committed to tackling this virus while enabling a sustainable and responsible return to international travel.”
Whilst nothing materialised in the immediate aftermath after these talks, recent rumours suggest that a renewed effort is being made to establish the air bridge ahead of the festive season, which begins with US Thanksgiving at the end of November. Passengers would need to be tested before their flight, and upon arrival at their destination, and if they test negative for both, would be allowed to avoid quarantine.
London and New York’s tourism industries would greatly benefit from the air bridge. Both cities heavily rely on tourism, and their economies have been greatly affected by the pandemic, making this air bridge a win win situation.
While this is all very exciting, don’t book your flights just yet, as the officials haven’t come to a final decision. But fingers crossed, we’ll be able to go to the concrete jungle where dreams are made of in no time!