Nations are easing Covid travel rules as the Easter holiday period approaches, but sunseekers planning a well-earned break could still face disruption to their plans. Popular destinations are relaxing the strictest regulations ahead of the big holiday getaway, but many flights could still be delayed or cancelled.
To reduce the impact on passengers, most cancellations are being made at least a day in advance and on routes with multiple daily flights, so passengers can be offered alternative departures. British Airways said many of its most recent cancellations include flights cut as part of its decision last month to reduce its schedule until the end of May.
Airports are also struggling from the combination of staff shortages and a spike in demand as many families head abroad for the school Easter holiday, which is the first since the UK’s coronavirus restrictions for international travellers were dropped.
More than 100 UK flights scheduled for Wednesday were cancelled. British Airways axed at least 78 flights at Heathrow, while easyJet cancelled at least 30 at Gatwick.
Meanwhile, more holiday hotspots are easing Covid rules amid the rush to secure an Easter break. However, there have been warnings of disruption in Sri Lanka because of supply shortages.
Spain
The country has updated its entry requirements and non-vaccinated UK passengers can now enter Spain as long as they show proof of a negative Covid test or evidence of recovery.
Certificate of vaccination : Proof of being fully-vaccinated - with both doses of a two-dose vaccine or one dose of a one-dose vaccine - at least 14 days prior to arrival in Spain. If more than 270 days have passed since the final dose, certification of a booster vaccination is also required, except for teenagers aged 12 to 17 (inclusive).
Diagnostic Test Certificate : Proof that the passenger has carried out a negative diagnostic test including PCR tests (within 72 hours) or antigen tests (within 24 hours).
Certificate of recovery : Proof that the passenger has recovered from Covid. Recovery certificates issued by the official authorities will be valid at least 11 days after tests carried out by qualified personnel. The certificate shall be valid for 180 days after the date of the first positive diagnostic test result. Children under 12 years old are exempt when travelling with an adult.
All air arrivals, including children, must also present a QR code which is obtained from filling in the Health Control Form available via Spain Travel Health (SpTH). This new legislation is for UK travellers aged 12 and above prior to their arrival to the whole of Spain, including the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands.
Malta
The island has stated it is continuing with its roadmap to recovery despite observing an increase in daily cases, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, has confirmed that Malta had the lowest rate of Covid-related ITU occupancy across the EU.
The majority of the Maltese population has also received the third dose of the Covid vaccine, leading to a further relaxation of restrictions relating to incoming travel. From Monday April 11, 2022, incoming tourists that have not been vaccinated will be allowed in with a negative PCR test (taken up to 72 hours prior to arrival) or a recognised Covid recovery certificate which cannot be older than 180 days.
A vaccine certificate is no longer needed for persons to attend standing outdoor events, or seated indoor events. Minister for Tourism Clayton Bartolo said: “The decision to ease further Covid restrictions related to travel continues to be a turning point in the Government’s efforts to drive the Maltese Islands back to normality."
Johann Buttigieg, Chief Executive Officer of the Malta Tourism Authority added: "Today’s announcement essentially means that persons who, for some reason or other, are not fully vaccinated against Covid-19 will be able to visit Malta without the need for mandatory quarantine. This is great news for the tourism industry and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to explore the Maltese Islands."
Seychelles
Visitors can now enter the destination without having to present a negative PCR test. Adults who have received the first two doses of the Covid-19 vaccine and a booster jab will be considered fully immunised.
Younger people aged 12 to 18 years, only need to have the first two vaccine doses. All fully immunised visitors are now exempt from pre-travel PCR test requirement.
However, unvaccinated or partially vaccinated visitors will be required to present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours or a rapid antigen test done in a certified laboratory within 24hours before departure to Seychelles. Potential visitors having tested positive for Covid-19 - between two and 12 weeks before travel – are also exempted from pre-travel testing upon provision of proof of infection and recovery.
It is mandatory that all visitors apply for a Travel Authorization prior to travel.
Sri Lanka
The UK Foreign Office has updated its travel advice after the country’s government declared a public emergency.
The guidance said: “The economic situation is deteriorating in Sri Lanka with shortages of basic necessities including medicines, fuel and food because of a shortage of hard currency to pay for imports. There may be long queues at grocery stores, gas stations, and pharmacies. Local authorities may impose the rationing of electricity, resulting in power outages.
“There have been a number of recent protests. Local restrictions, including further curfews could be imposed at short notice. You should be vigilant, avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings, and follow the advice of the local authorities.”
It added: “Due to a prevalence of Covid-19 cases in the community, there could be changes to flights and airport operations at short notice. Lockdowns could be imposed in affected areas, and travel restrictions may also be imposed at short notice.”
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