HOLIDAY HOPES

Coronavirus Scotland: ‘Talks ongoing with Portugal’ over first ‘air bridge’ which could save Scots’ summer holidays

GOVERNMENT officials are reportedly in talks with Portugal to create an air bridge so returning holidaymakers don’t have to self-isolate.

Brits could still enjoy a summer holiday abroad under plans being considered by the Government, which would see its new 14-day quarantine period cancelled when travelling between the two countries.

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If agreed, it would be the first air bridge between European countries.

It would allow British holidaymakers to go abroad and return to the UK without having to quarantine for a fortnight when they return.

Talks between the two sides are in an “initial phase”, according The Times.

The Government is thought to want both British and Portuguese holidaymakers to use to corridor, in the hope that it would bring tourism money back into the UK.

Air bridges are being considered by European governments between countries that have a similar coronavirus infection rate.

It would see self-isolation periods scrapped when holidaymakers arrived at their destination or returned to their country of origin.

Responding to reports of an air corridor being established between the two countries, the Portuguese foreign ministry said: “Given the relevant reciprocal interests, the foreign ministry is confident that it will be possible to agree a solution that meets these interests, especially concerning the coming summer season.”

It comes after tourism chiefs in the Algarve region welcomed the possibility of an air bridge with the UK last week.

Joao Fernandes, head of the Algarve Tourism Board, said: “It looks correct to us having a balanced decision that secures the health of the visitor and the return to normality should attend different levels of risk.

“People need to have a well-deserved rest provided by holidays after a whole year of work, especially in these extraordinary times we have been living in”

He added: “There is a big British community living in the Algarve willing to bring back their family and friends like they do every year so this would be great news and opportunity for them to."

Around two million Brits visit Portugal every year.

Mr Fernandes continued: “In the airport there are strict health and security measures being taken as per national and international rules and upon arrival, the airport will monitor the health conditions of the traveller, take their temperature and isolate them only where Covid-19 symptoms are revealed.”

On Friday, the Home Secretary confirmed that air bridges were being considered by the Government.

Priti Patel also announced that the 14-day quarantine rules will be put in place from June 8, but said they will be reviewed every three weeks.

Ms Patel said: “When it comes to air bridges, I think we should be absolutely open to all ideas.

“This is not for today but this doesn’t mean we should rule this out in the future.”