As the pandemic takes a toll on the aviation industry, passenger figures at Heathrow were down 82 percent in October when compared to last year. 

As England enters a four-week lockdown, the airport has further warned that the figures for November could be even worse.

Heathrow stated that the long-haul and the critical market for trades suffered steep declines. Overall cargo volumes have also been down 23 percent compared to last year.

This has been due to the ‘debilitating quarantine requirements’ set by the UK government

John Holland-Kaye, Chief Executive, Heathrow, said, “Aviation is the lifeblood of the UK’s economy. It is critical for exports of goods and services. It also helps in importing vaccines, as well as inbound tourism, students, and foreign direct investment. Lack of government action is weakening our sector. This is making it harder for us to support the eventual economic recovery and help deliver the prime minister’s vision of a global Britain.”

Heathrow has continually argued that the lack of a testing system has left British airports unable to compete with EU rivals.

The statement added that the English and Welsh airports have been refused to avail of business rates relief. This has made the situation more challenging and plans to end VAT-free shopping threatens to collapse the industry. 

These figures have arrived as new research suggests that the quarantine system may be less effective than previously considered.

Also Read: New Research Reveals That UK Quarantine Scheme Is Hardly Effective