Pakistan has been added to England’s “red list” – meaning 11 nights of mandatory hotel quarantine for anyone arriving after 4am on Friday 9 April.
Which countries will be placed on the red list and why?
The Philippines, Pakistan, Kenya and Bangladesh have been added to England’s so-called red list.
The government said: Pakistan and other countries have been added “to protect the country against new variants of Covid-19 at a critical time for the vaccine programme”.
A statement said: “With over 30 million vaccinations delivered in the UK so far, the additional restrictions will help to reduce the risk of new variants – such as those first identified in South Africa and Brazil – entering England.
“So far, surveillance has found that few cases of the South Africa variant have been identified as being imported from Europe, with most coming from other parts of the world.
Direct flights to and from Pakistan will continue to operate during the red list period, however passengers are advised to check their travel plans before departing for England.
With mandatory hotel quarantine the cost of an adult passenger is currently £1750.00, discounts are applied for additional guests in a room.
The managed quarantine package must be pre booked before leaving for the UK, the airlines are likely to refuse boarding to anyone without proof of hotel quarantine and the passenger locator form.
Who can still enter England from these countries?
The Government website, gov.uk, states only British and Irish citizens, or those with residence rights in the UK (including long-term visa holders), will be allowed to enter.
Which airlines are operating flights?
As of 9th April 2021 – Virgin Atlantic and British Airways operate scheduled direct flights between Pakistan and London. Indirect schedule Flights currently operating include – Turkish Airlines and Gulf Air. Due to the UAE Red List Emirates Airlines and Etihad Airways are not allowed to bring passengers back to the UK which has caused a significant increase in fares and availability of seats for Pakistan flights. Qatar Airways was added to the UK red list on 19th March and PIA – Pakistan international airlines is currently banned from operating within the EU.
Flight Schedules to and from Pakistan are likely to be affected by the Red List therefore please ensure you reconfirm flights and rebook in advance to avoid noshow.