The UK’s hub airport is stressing its new position as the “gateway to sea and sand” thanks to an expanded short-haul network and the establishment of “travel corridors” to around 60 destinations without the need for a 14-day quarantine when returning to the UK.

Heathrow is also touting its “raft of safety protocols” and technology installed at the airport to protect passengers and staff from Covid-19.

New destinations for this summer from British Airways include Dubrovnik, Genoa and Verona, while Czech Airlines is a newcomer to Heathrow with flights to Prague.

Ross Baker, Heathrow’s chief commercial officer, said: “Heathrow is ready for another summer getaway season, with new technology and processes now in place to ensure our passengers are safe to fly. 

“With our departure boards filling up with short-haul, low-cost destinations, travellers may be surprised with what’s on offer at the UK’s hub airport.”

The airport is using UV technology to disinfect moving handrails, UV-ray cleaning robots and self-cleaning anti-viral wraps fitted to security trys.

It has also created “Fly Safe Pit Stop” points around the airport for passengers to pick up free face masks, anti-viral wipes and hand sanitiser.