The Portuguese government has announced moves to lockdown all airports in the country for five days over the Easter holidays in a bid to tackle the spread of coronavirus. However, with some British nationals still in the country awaiting flights back to the UK, will their wait be extended?
People will now not be allowed to travel outside their home municipalities, except for work reasons, for five days.
Gatherings of more than five people are also banned, with the exception of close families exceeding that size.
Following Easter, airports are set to reopen, but will only be allowed to carry one-third of their passenger capacity.
At the time of writing Portugal has recorded more than 9,800 confirmed cases of Covid-19, with 246 deaths.
“If you are in a country where UK-bound flights are still available, book or rebook your flight and return home as soon as possible,” advises the FCO website.
For those who are unable to secure a commercial flight, the government is setting up special repatriation flights.
In a national television address on Monday, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab announced a partnership with UK airlines including British Airways, easyJet, Virgin, Titan and Jet2 to set up a repatriation effort.
Mr Raab explained: “Where commercial routes remain an option, airlines will be responsible for getting passengers home.
“That means offering alternative flights, at little to no cost where routes have been cancelled. And it means allowing passengers to change tickets, including between carriers.
“So for those still in countries where commercial options are still available, don’t wait. Don’t run the risk of getting stranded.”
Meanwhile, special charter flights will be advertised on the government website.
“Once special charter flights have been arranged we will promote them through the government’s travel advice and by the British Embassy or high commission in your country,” said Mr Raab.
“British travellers who want a seat on those flights will book and pay directly through a dedicated travel management company.”
