Meanwhile, working from home and other Covid measures will remain in place for the foreseeable future, and there are forecasts of an income squeeze for most families in 2022.
Here are the key headlines concerning travel on Tuesday 4 January.
Pre-departure PCR tests ‘to be dropped’
UK arrivals will no longer be obliged to take a pre-departure Covid-19 test under forthcoming changes to travel requirements, it is understood. Ministers have reportedly conceded this measure does not serve a purpose anymore. The requirement to take a PCR test within two days of arriving in the UK will remain, it is understood. (The Times)
England to continue with Covid measures, says PM
England will continue with its Plan B Covid measures amid growing pressures on the NHS, Boris Johnson has said. He said this included mask wearing in certain indoor settings and guidance to work from home where possible. Measures are due to expire on 26 January, although they are expected to be reviewed on Wednesday. (BBC News)
Brits to face cost of living squeeze in 2022
Inflation is expected to hit 6% by April, driven by higher energy costs, while food prices are growing at their fastest since March 2019 due to labour shortages. Tax hikes in April, with a 1.25% uplift in employee national insurance contributions will add to the strain. Research by economic think tank the Resolution Foundation found average households will see bills rise £1,200 this year. (City AM)
Ryanair flight in ‘fire’ drama
A Ryanair flight from Manchester was forced to make an emergency landing in France after a fire reportedly broke out. The flight to Faro made an emergency landing in Brest in western France on Monday. A replacement aircraft was sent to pick up passengers. (The Sun)
