The City of London Corporation is calling for new ‘air bridges’ to be opened up for business travel in and out of the UK.

The Government is expected to set out details on ‘air bridges’ for holidaymakers in the coming days. This will allow individuals to visit a select number of countries without having to self-isolate for 14 days on their return to the UK.

A similar provision has not been made for business travellers. According to data from the Office for National Statistics, 6.6 million overseas business visits were made by UK citizens in 2018. Business trips into the UK stood at 8.4 million in the same year, accounting for 22% of all inbound visits to the country.

Catherine McGuinness, Policy Chair at the City of London Corporation, said:

“The current quarantine proposals are having a major impact on a range of sectors, including the City’s financial and professional services firms as well as our cultural institutions.

“As restrictions are gradually eased, enabling business travellers to fly safely alongside holidaymakers should be a priority for the Government.

“After all, millions of households across the country need businesses and the economy to thrive so that they can afford to pay for their next overseas holiday.”

Notes to editors

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk