As countries across Europe begin partial relaxations of current lockdown protocols, the EU is putting together an exit strategy with hopes of resuming cross-border travel. It is hoped that by producing a strong plan, member states can work together to implement safety protocols and ultimately resume air travel.
However, this could mean yet more bad news for Britons hoping to jet off on holiday soon.
With some nations, including Spain, hinting that Britons will not be allowed when they initially open the borders, if all member states adopt the same mentality, it could be lights out for UK holidaymakers.
When discussing the relaxation of lockdown and the possible ignition of tourism, Balearics Tourism minister Lago Negueruela hinted that Britons will be some of the last to be welcomed back to the holiday hotspot.
He said: “There are countries like the United Kingdom that have taken too long to adopt containment measures that also puts us in a different situation with respect to them.”
Guidelines will include social distancing measures, rules within airports and onboard aircraft such as intense cleaning regimes, and the use of protective equipment.
Though these new guidelines have been outlined, officials say that the timing depends on the health situation of all Member States.
“While the timing and specific modalities will differ between member states, it is essential that there is a common framework… Lack of coordination in lifting restrictive measures risks having negative effects for all member states and creating political friction,” she continued.
As of today France, Italy and Spain, all announced that some stringent restrictions will be lifted this week.
The UK, on the other hand, remains in lockdown with no sign of an exit strategy.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office continues to urge Britons to avoid “all but essential travel” for an “indefinite” period of time.
In a speech to the nation this morning, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “This is the moment of opportunity, this is the moment when we can press home our advantage, it is also the moment of maximum risk.
“I know there will be many people looking at our apparent success, and beginning to wonder whether now is the time to go easy on those social distancing measures.”
Mr Johnson emphasised that measures must remain in place to avoid a second peak and to help the NHS.
Meanwhile, in Spain beaches are reopening and children are being allowed to play outside for the first time in weeks.
In France, President Macron is due to unveil a lockdown exit strategy to the nation on Tuesday. It is thought the strategy will focus on reopening schools, sending workers back to their jobs and resuming public transport.
In Italy, citizens are being allowed to visit families, meanwhile, parks, factories and building sites are set to reopen.
Hairdressers, beauty salons, bars and restaurants are expected to reopen for dine-in service from June 1, and retail shops which remain closed will be opened on May 18 along with museums and libraries.
