Delta Air Lines has begun rolling out fast, free Wi-Fi on select long-haul international routes, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s journey towards offering complimentary, reliable, streaming-quality connectivity across its entire global fleet. This development is expected to cover most transatlantic flights by the end of the summer.
Starting this summer, Delta passengers on certain Viasat-equipped international flights can enjoy free Wi-Fi, presented by T-Mobile, as part of the airline’s broader initiative to extend this service globally.
Streaming quality: passengers on Delta Air Lines flights can enjoy free, high speed Wi-Fi
Currently, free Wi-Fi is available on nearly 700 aircraft, covering more than 90% of Delta’s domestic mainline fleet. The airline anticipates that most customers will have access to this service by the end of the year.
Ranjan Goswami, Senior Vice President of Customer Experience Design at Delta, highlighted the significance of this rollout, stating,
As we continue to roll out fast, free Wi-Fi and the in-flight experiences it powers, we’re able to serve customers travelling both domestically and internationally in new, in-the-moment ways. The scale at which we’re bringing free Wi-Fi to customers is unmatched in the airline industry, and it’s a testament to the incredible efforts of Delta teams across the business that have expertly navigated an extremely complex rollout.
Delta is implementing this service on Viasat-equipped widebody aircraft on a route-by-route basis to ensure it meets the high standards expected by customers.
Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management said,
Delta’s introduction of fast, free Wi-Fi on transatlantic routes is a significant benefit for UK-based business travellers. The ability to stay connected and work efficiently during long-haul flights will greatly enhance productivity, making it easier to manage international business commitments without interruption. This advancement underscores the ongoing improvements in business travel, ensuring our clients can maximise their time in the air.
Additional routes will be gradually introduced as reliable, high-quality service becomes available, following a phased strategy similar to that used for domestic installations in 2022.
Ranjan Goswami: the scale at which we’re bringing free Wi-Fi to customers is unmatched in the airline industry
Initially, the international Wi-Fi portal will not require passengers to log in with their SkyMiles account. However, later this year, all Viasat Wi-Fi-equipped aircraft will transition to the Delta Sync Wi-Fi experience, offering personalised onboard experiences and exclusive offers to SkyMiles members.
Timeline
Fast, free Wi-Fi started rollout on most flights between the US and France (Paris and Nice). The following list shows the start of rollout for further countries.
August 2024 United Kingdom, Germany, Netherlands, Spain and Italy
September 2024 Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Greece, Portugal, Sweden and Switzerland
October 2024 Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru; followed by Hawaii
December 2024-January 2025 Nigeria, Ghana and Senegal
Mid-Late 2025 Transpacific region (including Asia, Australia and New Zealand) and South Africa
For information on Delta Air Lines flights, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.
SkyTeam, the global airline alliance, and Virgin Atlantic have announced that the UK airline will join as SkyTeam’s newest member in early 2023.
Virgin Atlantic will become SkyTeam’s first and only UK member airline, enhancing the alliance’s transatlantic network and services to and from Heathrow and Manchester Airport.
The alliance claimed that Virgin Atlantic customers ‘will benefit from a consistent, seamless customer experience, across 1,000+ global destinations. They’ll also have more opportunities to earn and redeem points across member airlines and access to a network of 750+ airport lounges, spanning six continents’.
Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Club members will enjoy significant benefits from the day of joining, with a global expansion of its loyalty offering. Virgin Atlantic Silver Card holders will be recognised as SkyTeam Elite Members, whilst the airline’s Gold Card members will become Elite Plus. This recognition provides a raft of benefits, including priority check in, baggage handling and boarding. Flying Club members will be able to take advantage of the benefits as soon as Virgin Atlantic officially enrols in SkyTeam, which is expected early in 2023.
Virgin Atlantic’s entry into the alliance builds upon the success of its transatlantic joint venture partnership with Delta Air Lines and Air France-KLM, each already long established SkyTeam members. The four partners are co-located at London Heathrow’s Terminal Three, alongside existing SkyTeam members Aeromexico and China Eastern, providing customers with smooth airside transits and the most convenient connections times possible.
Walter Cho, SkyTeam Chairman said
Walter Cho
Virgin Atlantic is synonymous with innovation…
…and excellent service.
An iconic British airline with a global outlook that puts customers at the heart of its operations
– like SkyTeam and its members –
and we are delighted to welcome them into our alliance.
Kristin Colvile, SkyTeam CEO, said,
Kristin Colvile
As a member of SkyTeam, Virgin Atlantic will benefit from increased opportunities to expand its global network through partnerships and synergies: customers will have more ways to earn and burn miles while enjoying the service for which Virgin Atlantic is renowned. Virgin Atlantic shares SkyTeam’s values, caring for our customers, our employees, and the world in which they live, and we are excited to have them as part of the SkyTeam family.
Shai Weiss, CEO Virgin Atlantic, commented,
Shai Weiss: “2022 marks the year Virgin Atlantic gets back to its best for our customers and people and joining SkyTeam is an important milestone”.
At Virgin Atlantic we strive to create thoughtful experiences that feel different for our customers and SkyTeam shares that customer first ethos.
Our membership will allow us to enhance established relationships with our valued partners at Delta and Air France-KLM, as well as opening up opportunities to collaborate with new airlines.
It will enable a seamless customer experience, with an expanded network and maximised loyalty benefits.
Codeshare agreements are already in place with Aeromexico and Middle East Airlines with options for more codeshares to follow.
Interline agreements with all SkyTeam members are already in place, providing one touch point for all customers, creating a seamless journey on one ticket.
Virgin Atlantic flies to 12 destinations throughout the USA in partnership with Delta and Air France-KLM including New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and San Francisco. In May the airline launched a brand-new service to Austin, Texas and will start daily flights to Tampa, Florida from November. Virgin Atlantic also operates an extensive Caribbean portfolio including Antigua, Barbados, Jamaica, and The Bahamas. Virgin Atlantic also operates services to Greater China, India, Israel, Nigeria, Pakistan, and South Africa.
SkyTeam members, Delta, Air France and KLM are already collocated at Virgin Atlantic’s home base at London Heathrow Terminal 3. Virgin Atlantic operates long-haul services from UK regional airports including Edinburgh and Manchester. The airline offers a comprehensive network to North America and the Caribbean in partnership with Delta Air Lines, Air France and KLM, and also operates services to Greater China, Israel, Nigeria, Pakistan and South Africa.
https://gtm.uk.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Web-VS-in-SkyTeam.png312820Davehttps://gtm.uk.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Smarter-Better-Fairer-GTM-logo_02.pngDave2022-09-27 14:01:532022-09-27 14:01:56Virgin Atlantic to join SkyTeam
Delta Air Lines is introducing an improved “premium economy” experience.
Customers flying in Delta Premium Select, available on all trans-Pacific and most trans-Atlantic flights, will soon be treated to a refreshed and improved cabin experience, complementing the spacious seat design Delta’s Premium Select passengers already know.
Improved: Delta Premium Select passengers will soon be treated to a refreshed and improved cabin experience.
The new Delta Premium Select cabin features locally-inspired dining, premium hand-crafted amenities and more dedicated service touchpoints – while also driving social impact through the airline’s expanded Someone Somewhere partnership.
Mauricio Parise, Delta’s Vice President of Brand Experience said,
Delta Premium Select sits at the intersection of luxury and practicality – giving customers the opportunity to treat themselves to a more spacious seat and premium experience at a lower price point compared to our Delta One cabin. We continue to debut premium products designed for the future of travel, with differentiated offerings that give our customers the experiences they crave.
Delta Premium Select customers will enjoy an elevated dining experience that offers more options infused with local flavors.
Mike Henny, Delta’s Managing Director of Onboard Service said,
At Delta, we know a good meal can make a great experience on Delta flights even better. When designing our Delta Premium Select menu, we reimagined our food and beverage offerings from scratch, and we’re excited to launch delicious new offerings that also highlight our premium service and culture of innovation.
Elevated experience: Delta Premium Select customers will enjoy an elevated dining experience that offers more options infused with local flavours.
In the past year, Delta has revamped its onboard dining experience to create a “people-first and values-led foundation”, including seasonal menus, more plant-based meals, local sourcing and new partnerships with small businesses, diverse partners and suppliers from across the globe.
Delta Premium Select menu options will include meals like braised beef short rib with fingerling potatoes and dijon green peppercorn jus; Impossible™ Meatballs with polenta, pomodorini sauce and broccolini; honey harissa chicken thighs with jollof rice and stewed greens; and for dessert, mango mousse with mango passion fruit compote.
Delta Premium Select customers will be served their main courses on bagasse plates made from sugarcane plant fiber, with linen tableware and napkins, silver flatware and glassware. And they’ll enjoy more dedicated service touchpoints throughout their flight, like a special ‘bubbles and bites’ moment, with sparkling wine, water and a special treat shortly after takeoff, as well as a premium snack basket.
From October 2022, Delta will phase in new handmade amenity kits by Someone Somewhere featuring Grown Alchemist travel essentials and other premium essentials that make the journey more enjoyable.
Premium: Beginning in October, Delta will phase in new handmade amenity kits by Someone Somewhere featuring Grown Alchemist travel essentials and other premium items.
The new Delta Premium Select amenity kits will come in three new designs that Someone Somewhere artisans created exclusively for Delta.
Special for the month of October, select Delta flights leaving the US will feature a pink kit to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month as part of Delta’s longstanding effort to support breast cancer awareness, research and education.
Customers will also enjoy specially-curated, natural skincare products by Grown Alchemist, a leading force in clean beauty. Customers can keep hydrated with vanilla watermelon lip balm, found in their kits, and refresh with a vanilla and orange peel oshibori hand towel, which will be handed out before the first meal.
Other premium amenities, including a memory-foam pillow, noise-cancelling headsets and plush blankets made from recycled materials, are also designed to make the in-flight experience more comfortable and relaxing.
From the signature Impossible Burger to Black Sheep Foods’ plant-based lamb meatballs, Delta is introducing five new plant-based and vegetable-packed dishes for Delta One and First Class customers on select flights of 900 miles or more.
Delta is elevating the standard for vegetarian and plant-based meals onboard with unique new dishes featuring products from Impossible Foods, Black Sheep Foods and more locally grown vegetables.
The additional menu options will launch this month alongside the reintroduction of hot meals for Delta One and First Class customers on select flights 900 miles and greater.
Kristen Manion Taylor, SVP – In-Flight Service said,
Not only are plant-based meats like Impossible Burger delicious to eat, but they’re also often better for the environment, using far less land and water to produce. These new options are one part of Delta’s broader mission to promote a wellness-focused travel journey.
Delta is bringing its well-being commitment to life across the customer journey. From plant-based food options with Impossible Foods to a first-of-its-kind loyalty offer with Instacart, to mindful in-flight entertainment with Peloton and Spotify, Delta is introducing more personalized and health-conscious moments at every step to ensure customers travel well.
Impossible Burger
Delta is putting its own spin on the groundbreaking Impossible Burger with a green chili spice-rubbed burger topped with caramelised onion chutney and Manchego cheese served on a brioche roll.
Served on select flights 900 miles and greater.
Impossible Burger is made from plants for people who love meat. Savory, juicy and mouthwatering Impossible Burger handles and cooks like ground beef so you can use it on all of your favorite dishes. You can shape it into patties, crumble it, grill it, griddle it, sauté it and more.
Black Sheep Foods’ juicy, plant-based lamb meatballs are inspired by the highest-quality heritage breed lamb; the Greek-inspired dish is served with spinach rice and feta.
Served for a limited time on select flights 900 miles and greater departing San Francisco in partnership with Souvla.
All of our ingredients are free of antibiotics, hormones, cholesterol, gluten, dairy, and soy.
Impossible Meatballs are made by Impossible Foods with a mix of Impossible Burger and Impossible™ Sausage and seasoned with a savory homestyle blend. The meatballs are served in a pomodoro sauce with orzo risotto, pesto cream, spinach and roasted tomatoes.
Served on select flights 900 miles and greater departing New York-JFK and LGA in partnership with Union Square Events.
We took the meaty texture and juicy flavor from our award-winning best sellers and combined them to create irresistibly delicious, nutrient-rich and fully-cooked meatballs. Soy and potato proteins deliver their meaty bite and essential nutrition. The molecule heme is key to our meatballs’ unmistakable flavor while coconut and sunflower oils give that juicy sizzle. Methylcellulose (a culinary binder commonly found in ice cream, sauces, and jams) and food starch bring everything together.
Delicious pan-fried cauliflower cakes made with riced cauliflower, rapini and parmesan are served with creamy pesto orzo, roasted tomatoes, and toasted hazelnuts.
Served on select flights 900 miles and greater departing Seattle.
Warm Seasonal Vegetable Plate
This vegetable-packed dish features fresh broccolini, roasted button mushrooms, grilled heirloom carrots, grilled red onions and roasted cherry tomatoes, served with herb-scented Israeli couscous and a lemon herb butter.
Served on select flights 900 miles and greater.
https://gtm.uk.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Web-Gatwick-1.png312820Davehttps://gtm.uk.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Smarter-Better-Fairer-GTM-logo_02.pngDave2022-03-10 15:45:082022-03-10 16:56:16Impossible Foods featured in new plant-based menu options to debut onboard Delta
Scott Pawley, Managing Director of Global Travel Management shares his favourite airline and tells us why Virgin Atlantic.
Charismatic, fun and cheeky: Virgin Atlantic was built in the image of its founder, Richard Branson
The best airline depends on the destination you’re travelling to and the level of service you expect. So, in choosing my favourite airline I took note of the range of destinations covered and the which airlines ‘go the extra mile. And, taking account of those two criteria, Virgin Atlantic can rightly claim to be a great airline.
Since 1984, when Richard Branson expanded his empire from music and entertainment to the aviation industry, the Virgin brand has competed for passenger traffic on some of the most popular routes. And, as Scott says, they set about changing the way customers saw airlines.
They had a culture of simply giving passengers everything they wanted and needed – a clubbed together several minds that knew exactly what people want. Not surprising from a brand that launched Culture Club and Simple Minds.
They gave legitimacy to having a business with a cheeky personality; but always managed to stay the right side of ‘over the top’.
Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson shows off a Virgin Atlantic Airbus A350-XWB at Farnborough Air Show
Onboard massages and seat-back video games were among the offers that got Virgin Atlantic noticed and kept them at the forefront of people’s thought.
Scott also drew parallels between Virgin’s airline brand and Global Travel Management.
It’s a company that embraced innovation, offered a great service and competed with much bigger, established competitors. It’s exactly how we at GTM have approached the business travel industry: innovating, providing the best-possible offering and showing how an independent, smaller travel management company can provide a better service than some of the venture capital-owned agencies.
Although Scott didn’t extend the similarity much further.
I haven’t flown hot air balloons, abseiled down the Matterhorn or launched people into space. Yet.
Scott explained some of the things that sets Virgin Atlantic apart:
The Wander Wall in Virgin Atlantic’s Premium cabin is one of the little things that keeps the airline’s passengers happy in flight
The Wander Wall is an innovative idea from Virgin Atlantic which offers Premium Economy passengers the opportunity to choose from a selection of snacks and soft drinks mid-flight; I’m not aware of any other airline offering such a facility to its Premium Economy passengers.
Also, the Clubhouse. The design and layout are a divergence from the normal type of Business Class lounges at airports all over the world. For example, there is also the Clubhouse Retreat, a relaxation area where passengers can relax prior to their flight, or, go to the opposite extreme and jump on a Peloton.
But what’s most important for business travellers is whether an airline can get them to the place they need to go. Virgin’s network of destinations means that passengers travelling to many parts of North America and Europe can find a route on Virgin or one of its joint venture partners, Delta Air Lines, Air France and KLM.
Contact your GTM Account Manager next time you’re flying to a Virgin Atlantic destination.
https://gtm.uk.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Nuremberg-3.png312820Davehttps://gtm.uk.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Smarter-Better-Fairer-GTM-logo_02.pngDave2022-02-07 13:25:322022-02-07 13:25:39My favourite airline: Virgin Atlantic - Scott Pawley
Delta Air Lines is accelerating its efforts to build what it describes as ‘a more sustainable and people-first future for air travel’.
Starting in January 2022, the airline will refresh its onboard product offerings with artisan-made amenity kits, recycled bedding, reusable and biodegradable service ware and premium canned wine.
Together, the products will reduce onboard single-use plastic consumption by approximately 2.2 million kg per year – that’s roughly the weight of 1,500 standard-sized cars.
The airline says these initiatives significantly increase Delta’s support of minority- and women-run businesses.
Allison Ausband, Delta’s E.V.P. and Chief Customer Experience Officer explained:
Decisions we make on every aspect of our product are opportunities to make good on two core promises: to deliver exceptional customer experiences and build a better future for people and our planet.
These latest additions deliver something unique to our customers, reduce our environmental impact and enable job creation for the communities we serve around the world.
Over the past year, Delta has deepened its relationships with suppliers in key markets, which allows the airline to serve more locally sourced menu items, and introduced a beverage lineup that shines a light on the first U.S. black-owned distillery, Du Nord Social Spirits.
Amelia DeLuca, V.P. of Sustainability for Delta said:
Delta has always put people at the centre of everything we do. It’s this people-first focus that led Delta to source new products onboard that reduce waste, bolster diverse suppliers and build communities.
We want to protect our planet and the people on it, and the products we provide onboard are the latest way we’re living out this commitment.
Delta’s partnership with Someone Somewhere has created jobs for more than 250 people in five of Mexico’s most vulnerable states.
Delta One Amenity Kits by Someone Somewhere
Delta has chosen Mexican apparel brand Someone Somewhere to create the amenity kits for customers seated in Delta’s premium Delta One cabin.
Someone Somewhere is a Certified B Corporation that combines Mexican traditional handcrafts with innovative products.
The new amenity kit eliminates five single-use plastic items, reducing plastic use by up to 40,000kg on an annual basis. Someone Somewhere’s artisanal production processes also eliminate waste and utilise ‘regenerated cotton’.
The new kits will launch onboard beginning in February and will contain sustainable, wellness-focused products including a Someone Somewhere eye mask, Grown Alchemist natural lip balm and hand lotion, and a Humble Co. bamboo toothbrush.
Both Grown Alchemist products onboard will transition to aluminium packaging in April 2022.
Premium bedding helps to recycle 25 million bottles a year
Bedding made from recycled materials
Delta’s soft, comfortable and premium bedding sets are now made with more than 100 recycled plastic bottles, which will use 25 million recycled bottles annually.
The airline is among the first to use 100% recycled polyester (rPET) bedding.
Combined with the new use of reusable bedding packaging, the rPET bedding will reduce single-use plastic use by up to 117,000 kg per year.
The sets began appearing on board in December 2021.
Bamboo cutlery will be rolled out across Delta’s cabins this year
Refreshed serviceware
Delta continues to overhaul its onboard service ware globally by introducing products made from natural and recycled materials to replace and reduce plastic usage.
When the project is complete later this year, the transition will reduce annual plastic use by up to 1.95 million kg.
Delta now offers bamboo cutlery for domestic First Class fresh packaged meals and on select international flights.
Later this year, all international Main Cabin customers will also see new dishware made from biodegradable material, bamboo cutlery and a premium paper placemat.
Havinging grown up between her family’s two Sonoma wineries Jamie Benziger is blazing her own trail in the wine industry.
Imagery Estate Winery premium canned wine
Delta will now serve two new aluminium-canned wines from Imagery Estate Winery, a premium Sonoma winery led by award-winning winemaker Jamie Benziger.
In 2019, Jamie was named Best Winemaker at the International Women’s Wine Competition and named to Wine Enthusiast’s 40 Under 40 list.
Delta will offer Imagery’s Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay onboard starting with select coast-to-coast flights this month and will expand to all domestic flights later this year.
The wine’s aluminum packaging reduces annual plastic use by up to 113,000 kg.
Imagery’s wines are also sustainably grown, as certified by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.
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Virgin Atlantic has announced the reopening of its Clubhouse at New York JFK airport from 19 July.
Upper Class customers, Flying Club Gold members as well as Delta’s Gold, Platinum, and Diamond Medallion members, can once again enjoy access to the airline’s flagship North America lounge enjoying a complimentary a la carte menu featuring five-star dining, tapas dishes and afternoon tea plus a wide selection of cocktails, wine and soft drinks.
Customers visiting in the morning can choose from a selection of breakfast favourites including eggs benedict, avocado on toast and a full English breakfast and for those visiting later in the day, the chicken tikka masala and the famous vegan Beyond Burger are on offer, washed down by a selection of beverages including the iconic Virgin Redhead cocktail.
The Clubhouse experience has been tailored to ensure the safety of customers. Customers will be encouraged to remain in their seated areas and enjoy table service from the Clubhouse team.
In addition, Virgin Atlantic has announced a new partnership with Plaza Premium Group which will now be responsible for the day to day running of the JFK Clubhouse under the guidance of the Virgin Atlantic team. Virgin Atlantic will also work with Plaza Premium for the Clubhouses in Boston, San Francisco, Washington and Johannesburg once they reopen as travel restrictions around the world start to relax.
Whilst customers will continue to enjoy the Clubhouse experience, the award-winning Plaza Premium group will bring a wealth of experience to the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse offering. The Group has won more than 60 accolades in the last five years, including “World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge” for four consecutive years from 2016 to 2019 at the Skytrax World Airline Awards.
Corneel Koster, Chief Customer and Operating Officer commented,
We’re delighted to welcome customers back to our Clubhouse at New York JFK offering the signature Virgin Atlantic experience we know they have missed over the past 18 months. With the friendly faces of our Clubhouse team, enhanced health and safety measures at every touchpoint and our innovative food and beverage offering, we will ensure our customers fly safe and fly well.
We look forward to expanding our partnership with Plaza Premium Group to our Clubhouses in North America and South Africa. Our shared values of top-notch hospitality, the most hospitable teams in the industry, a pioneering mindset and dedication to innovation will ensure our customers enjoy every moment of their journey as travel restrictions begin to relax and demand for global travel returns fast.
Bora Isbulan, Chief Commercial Officer, Plaza Premium Group told us,
Plaza Premium Group is delighted to be collaborating with Virgin Atlantic, one of the world’s most innovative and respected airline brand, in offering seamless services in their Clubhouses. With 22 years of experience in creating exquisite, award-winning airport moments, the PPG team look forward to serving Virgin Atlantic passengers a memorable and deliver each of these signature lounge experiences to life. This unique partnership sees two global travel brands offering the brand’s unique perspectives on airport hospitality, design and service that leaves an imprint with each visit. We are here with aligned mission and goals, joining hands to offer an elevated airport journey in supporting the return of travel. We are looking forward to working with like-minded partners to bring a brand new lounge experience and provide world-class lounge experience in welcoming global travellers.
Virgin Atlantic and Plaza Premium Lounge have also agreed on the co-development of lounges in other key hubs within the airline’s network.
Around the world, airlines are beginning to increase the number and frequency of services, as the airline industry starts the fightback and paves the way to global economic recovery .
We’ve taken a look at what plans some of the world’s leading airlines have to bolster their schedules this month.
British Airways
Throughout August, British Airways is resuming flying to
more destinations, albeit with continued low frequencies while the impact of
Covid-19 remains felt across the globe.
In Europe flights will resume to the holiday destinations of
Bari, Bastia, Bodrum, Bordeaux, Catania, Figari, Frankfurt, Genoa, Kefalonia,
Lyon, Luxembourg, Malta, Paphos and Pula, while further afield Antigua,
Islamabad and Nairobi join the long-haul line-up.
Air France
Air France plans a gradual frequency increase throughout the summer period, reaching 20% of the capacity initially planned for June, 35% in July and now, 40% this month. It is planning to reach of 80% of its pre-Covid global network having flights, with reduced frequencies, during the summer.
KLM
In terms of numbers of destinations, KLM is virtually at pre-Covid-19 levels. Between now and October, KLM will be serving 91 destinations, just one fewer than the same period last year, and up from 72 in July.
Lufthansa
Last month, Lufthansa announced that Birmingham-Munich,
Edinburgh-Frankfurt and Glasgow-Frankfurt would be reintroduced in August,
while London City-Frankfurt would return in October. However, the airline has subsequently brought
forward – to 7 September – the return of the latter service.
United Airlines
United announced the return of the San Francisco route from
Heathrow this month as well as Chicago to Brussels and Frankfurt, and Newark to
Brussels, Munich and Zurich. Overall United will be serving 25% of its usual
international schedules, up from 16% last month.
Delta Air Lines
Following the reintroduction of a number of routes in July,
Delta has announced it will continue to offer a robust, connection-friendly
network in August, flying more than 3,000 daily departures and serving 239
destinations worldwide, including 206 markets in the U.S. and 33
internationally.
American
American Airlines increased domestic flights and reopened
Admirals Club lounges earlier in the summer, as well as resuming flights from
Charlotte, Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Raleigh-Durham to Heathrow, from where
it now operates at Terminal 5. The
airline has also announced a strategic partnership with Jetblue which, it
claims, will increase American’s schedule to further European, African, Indian
and South American routes.
Ryanair
Ryanair will increase flights to over 60% of its normal
schedule throughout August, following what it said was a successful resumption
of services at 40% of capacity last month.
easyJet
easyJet announced earlier in the summer that it intended to increase the routes it operates to 75% of normal, in August, up from 50% in July.
If you plan to book flights on these – or any other airlines – this month, contact your GTM Account Manager.
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Delta Air Lines is partnering with UK-based Reckitt Benkiser to drive greater confidence in travel by “innovating cleaner, more hygienic experiences for customers and employees, alike“.
The partnership will pair Delta’s strength in safety and operational rigour with Lysol’s 130 years of germ-kill expertise and innovation to continue improving upon Delta CareStandard protocols launched during the Covid-19 pandemic across Delta airport locations and on board the airline’s aircraft.
Keeping surfaces clean is one of the areas the Delta CareStandard focuses on, along with giving travellers more space, cleaner air and providing safety and personal care from check-in to baggage claim, and every point in between.
The US Environmental Protection Agency recently approved both Lysol Disinfectant Spray and Lysol Disinfecting Wipes among the first to test effective against Covid-19 when used as directed on hard, non-porous surfaces.
Bill Lentsch, Delta’s Chief Customer Experience Officer said:
There’s no finish line for cleanliness – there’s always more we can do to innovate and elevate our already-high standards because that’s what our customers and employees expect and deserve.
The experts at Lysol share our drive for innovative, continuous improvement – they’re the best at their craft. That’s why we’re excited to get started on R&D to target germ ‘hot spots’ and cement the Delta CareStandard as the industry gold standard – so customers feel confident in choosing Delta as more people return to travel.
Rahul Kadyan, Lysol EVP, North America said:
Our collaboration with Delta is exciting because they have clearly demonstrated great leadership, care and commitment to cleanliness and innovation across their customer and employee touchpoints. Our shared vision to create breakthrough solutions within our industries, while bolstering current disinfection protocols will support Delta customers in feeling confident when they travel.
At Lysol, we’re committed to offering products and providing germ-kill expertise as defined by our purpose, which is to protect, heal and nurture in the relentless pursuit of a cleaner, healthier world.
Berkshire based Reckitt Benkiser is a £50bn, Anglo-Dutch multinational consumer goods company, developing health, hygiene and home products. It produces some of the world’s most-trusted, well-loved brands, like Lysol, Dettol, Cillit Bang, Finish, Harpic and Nurofen. The company is donating more than £500,000 to Berkshire Community Foundation to support charities and voluntary groups which provide access to essential services such as tackling food poverty, providing mental health support, and caring for the elderly and infirm in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Delta also recently announced a collaboration with Mayo Clinic to provide additional Covid-19 infection prevention and control measures for travellers and employees, including guidance on an employee Covid-19 testing programme. This will ensure ensuring that virtually all Delta employees will be tested in just a matter of weeks via onsite and at-home testing.
If you want to experience Delta Air Line’s customer experience on your next trip, contact your GTM Account Manager.
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Industry leaders call for coronavirus measures to re-start business travel.
Clive Wratten of the BTA and Heathrow's John Holland-Kaye have set out demands to ensure passenger confidence and safety on international flights. https://t.co/FUCu7sG3jhpic.twitter.com/C8hNYpN6ET
— Global Travel Management (@GlobalTravelMgt) May 18, 2020
— Global Travel Management (@GlobalTravelMgt) May 14, 2020
Dubai-based airline Flydubai is taking bookings on its website from 5 June, after announcing that it had suspended passenger operations until June 4 as part of the precautionary measures implemented in response to Covid-19. https://t.co/yu4pken2lR via @BTUK#BusinessTravelpic.twitter.com/tjFVej7ywO
— Global Travel Management (@GlobalTravelMgt) May 14, 2020
Virgin Atlantic has announced plans to cut jobs. KLM mandates face masks. Finland opens borders. IATA oppose the blocking of middle seats, favouring face masks. Eurowings asked passengers for new ideas. Qatar increases operations. Hong Kong Airport introduces full body disinfection booths.
— Global Travel Management (@GlobalTravelMgt) May 7, 2020
Eurowings has launched the ‘Ideas Get Wings’ challenge, encouraging the public to submit ideas for products, ground processes or digital customer service innovations for travel in the post-coronavirus era. https://t.co/zVioM8Nv29 via @BTUK#BusinessTravelpic.twitter.com/sLMG0fkNyP
— Global Travel Management (@GlobalTravelMgt) May 6, 2020
IATA has said there is no evidence that blocking the use of middle seats on aircraft will help to limit the spread of coronavirus and is instead backing the use of masks to protect passengers and crew during flights. https://t.co/gEXqxJPD6o via @BTNEurope#BusinessTravelpic.twitter.com/DVbaXWnfxX
— Global Travel Management (@GlobalTravelMgt) May 6, 2020
The Finnish government has announced it will begin allowing traffic across Schengen internal borders for those travelling for work or other essential journeys from 14 May as part of its plan to reopen parts of the country.https://t.co/bGybGFxIfD via @BTNEurope#BusinessTravelpic.twitter.com/D42hjpUjvB
— Global Travel Management (@GlobalTravelMgt) May 6, 2020
— Global Travel Management (@GlobalTravelMgt) May 5, 2020
UPDATE: 4 MAY 08:00
Travel providers continue to make plans and adjustments in the on-going fight against the pandemic. Airports are sharing plans and results, hotel groups are enhancing their product and offerings, while airlines and rail companies continue to update their arrangements.
IAG carriers Iberia and Vueling access over €1 billion in state-backed loans, while, elsewhere in the group, British Airways franchise Comair is not expected to fly before October.
And, finally, on this day in 2018, Heathrow Airport celebrated “Star Wars Day” with an announcement of several new destinations, from Tatooine to the Death Star…
— Global Travel Management (@GlobalTravelMgt) May 4, 2020
UPDATE: 28 APRIL 10:00
Airlines have announced further suspensions and arranged further repatriation flights; the UK government is discussing passenger quarantine; Gatwick issues a gloomy prediction; while The Londoner’s opening is postponed.
IATA announce the end of cheap travel and predict the UK will see 140m fewer flights; airlines continue to suspend services; airlines mandate use of masks and PPE; while airlines and hotel groups offer further concessions to customers.
Global Travel Management continues to publish regular tweets, every day, to update followers on all aspects of business travel, including the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. You can follow GTM’s Twitter account here – @GlobalTravelMgth– meanwhile, here are some recent tweets:
— Global Travel Management (@GlobalTravelMgt) April 21, 2020
UPDATE: 17 APRIL 17:00
Airlines have taken further actions amid warnings of revenues diminishing significantly, while another rail company is seeking government help and a U.S. airline has taken an innovative approach to reducing onboard touchpoints.
easyJet expects to report first half losses in the range of £360 million to £380 million, with around half of this figure as a result of over-hedging on fuel and FX.
Cathay Pacific is allowing its customers to make unlimited changes to new tickets, at no extra cost for all new tickets purchased before 30 June this year.
UPDATE: 13 APRIL 18:00
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, is taking full advantage of the aircraft downtime as a result of the coronavirus pandemic to conduct an extensive maintenance and cabin refresh programme.
UPDATE: 12 APRIL 15:00
Air Asia and Air France KLM have been reported in the news this weekend:
Air France KLM is reported to have announced internally that the company is losing €25 million per day.
UPDATE: 11 APRIL 10:00
Brussels Airlines has released footage of the process of storing their fleet of aircraft, now grounded at Brussels Airport. Each A330 takes about 400 man hours to store and the airline’s Maintenance and Engineering teams meticulously follow Airbus’ instructions to ensure they’re properly and appropriately parked up. Thirty employees are now working, full-time performing weekly inspections and turning the aircraft wheels every day to ensure even wearing, despite the weight of the aircraft.
Airlines continue to reduce services and make other savings, while Stansted has opened a testing centre and repatriation flights are planned for stranded travellers in India.
As airlines reduce their schedules further, Airbus has reacted by cutting planned production. Meanwhile, Marriott Bonvoy joins the increasing number of travel providers taking decisions to protect and extend earned status.
Airlines have been told to give prompt refunds, more airlines reduce flight schedules and extend policies, rescue flights from India commence, one UK airport bucks the European trend and robots are deployed to help with cleaning…
The US Transportation Department has announced that both US and foreign airlines must give a “prompt” refund to passengers for flights to, within, or from the US that have been cancelled due to Covid-19.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has announced the first round of rescue flights from India this week.
Hong Kong International Airport has deployed robots to clean public areas.
UPDATE: 4 APRIL 12:00
Airlines and hotel companies continue to make changes to their schedules and services in reaction to decreased demand in the light of the coronavirus outbreak.
Accor pledges to pay for employee Covid-19 medical bills.
Delta will make temporary changes to its food and beverage services on board all long-haul international flights starting from April to “lessen physical touch points on board”.
Emirates will commence flights from Dubai to London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Paris, Brussels and Zurich from 6 April.
Airports Council International has issued a gloomy prediction for the length of the air travel crisis, but airlines, car hire companies and even museums have released better news.
Airports Council International has warned that it may take until the end of 2021 before traffic levels reach pre-coronavirus levels.
Qatar Airways has announced the steps it is taking to limit the spread of Covid-19.
The British Museum, the Louvre, the Van Gogh Museum, the Vatican Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Rijksmuseum and the Musée d’Orsay are offering free virtual tours.
UPDATE: 2 APRIL 11:45
Airlines continue to announce changes, cuts and suspensions as they continue to battle the effect of the coronavirus outbreak.
American Airlines has produced a dramatically-reduced schedule for April.
British, Chinese, Philippine and Singapore airlines adjust schedules, including routes to and from London, while the Indian Government launches an online resource for stranded foreign nationals and Virgin Australia donates toilet paper to charity:
British Airways appears to be suspending flights from Hong Kong, Singapore and Sydney in early April, according to Business Traveller.
Virgin Atlantic has reduced its schedules to three routes from Heathrow – Hong Kong, Los Angeles and JFK.
South Korea to impose 14-day quarantine for all arrivals from tomorrow but the cabinet in India has announced there are no plans to extend the country’s lockdown.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has announced it will spend £75m repatriating Britons currently abroad.
Taiwan‘s Health Minister has announced the country’s airlines will be required to wear full protective gear during flights, starting tomorrow.
The London Heliport, the capital’s only CAA-licensed helipad, is to close with immediate effect.
But, yet again, there are some, small pieces of good news:
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has said the UK government will help facilitate rescue flights for the thousands of British travellers trying to get home from abroad.
Accor says that members of its ALL (Accor Live Limitless) loyalty programme will receive a boost in status nights and points to help them retain status.
Former Manchester United footballers Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs will open two hotels to NHS staff free of charge.
UPDATE: 19 MARCH 09:00
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office has issued an Exceptional Travel Advisory Notice. The FCO advises British nationals against all but essential international travel
As the Covid-19 outbreak continues, more travel suppliers have released information about their short-term plans.
In Venice, the city’s canals are reported to have cleared up for the first time in many years due to the drop in visitors.
After a week of lockdown… The canals in Venice are all clear and full of fishes. Kinda gives you the idea what will happen to Earth without Humans! pic.twitter.com/FVc7N8vmty
Low-cost carrier Jet 2 has suspended all flights to Spain.
Low-cost carrier Norwegianhas announced it will ground 40% of its long-haul fleet.
SAS has announced it will temporarily halt “most of its traffic” from today.
However, some airlines have made more positive announcements:
Cathay Pacific is adding flights to London and to the US ahead of the Easter break.
Lufthansa Group’s airlines have said they will continue operating some flights to the US despite President Donald Trump’s restrictions on non-citizens entering the country from 26 European countries.
Vietnam Airlines has reversed its decision to suspend flights from London, Paris and Frankfurt.
Further to the announcement that the United States has extended its travel ban (see below), the Foreign and Commonwealth Office has updated its travel advice for the United States, as follows:
The FCO advise against all but essential travel to the USA, due to restrictions put in place by the US government with effect from 03:59 GMT 17 March in response to the outbreak of coronavirus (Covid-19)
UPDATE: 14 MARCH 17:00
President Trump and Vice President Pence have extended the United States Schengen-area travel ban to include the United Kingdom and Repulic of Ireland. Please see thisbreaking news story.
UPDATE: 13 MARCH 15:00
The travel industry continues to react to the coronavirus outbreak. An increaesing number of airlines are suspending services reflecting reduced demand, while several new travel restrictions have been put in place.
The following airlines have recently announced suspensions of service:
Thailand has suspended granting of visas on arrival to nationals of Bulgaria, Bhutan, China, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Fiji, Georgia, India, Kazakhstan, Malta, Mexico, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan and Vanuatu.
The United States has imposed a temporary travel ban for travellers from 26 European countries.
Vietnam has suspended visa-free travel for people from the UK, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Norway, Spain and Sweden.
UPDATE: 10 MARCH 12:00
Rail companies and airlines have announced further suspensions of services, fee waivers and details of cleaning and disinfection regimes. These include:
Cathay Pacific suspends Japan service – All Cathay Pacific flights between Hong Kong and Fukuoka, Nagoya, Sapporo, and Tokyo Haneda are suspended until 28 March.
Emirates announces enhanced cleaning and disinfection and fee waivers – Emirates has announced enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures on all aircraft from Dubai and a newly-introduced waiver policy for all booked tickets issued until 31 March 2020.
Lufthansa Group plans 50% flight reductions – Lufthansa Group has announced a plan to reduce its number of flights across the group by 50% and to examine the extent to which its entire A380 fleet can be temporarily decommissioned.
Qantas cuts international flights and grounds eight A380s – The Qantas Group has announced cuts to its international network which will see a 23% reduction in capacity until mid-September.
UPDATE: 6 MARCH 12:00
More airlines have announced cancellations, schedule changes and restrictions due to the on-going Covid-19 outbreak. These include:
Aeroflot suspends flights to Hong KongAeroflot will temporarily suspend flights from Moscow to Hong Kong amid growing fears over the spread of the coronavirus.
American Airlines suspends flights to SeoulAmerican has suspended its daily operation between Seoul Incheon Airport and Dallas-Fort Worth Airport.
British Airways to waive flight change feesBritish Airways has announced it will waive flight change fees for customers who book until 16 March.
Delta suspends JFK-MilanDelta Air Lines has suspended its daily route between New York JFK and Milan Malpensa amid global concern over the spread of the coronavirus. The service is set to resume on 1 May. Delta’s daily flights from JFK and Atlanta to Rome remain unaffected.
Delta cuts Japan flightsDelta Air Lines will reduce its weekly flying schedule to Japan until 30 April and suspend its summer seasonal service between Seattle and Osaka this year.
Delta waives change fees for bookings in MarchDelta Air Lines will waive change fees for all flights booked between 1 March and 31 March to any destinations the airline serves.
Finnair announces China cancellations and more frequency reductionsFinnair will cancel all flights to mainland China (Guangzhou, Nanjing, Beijing Capital, Beijing Daxing, Shanghai and Xi’an) until 30 April 30. Daily flights to Seoul will be suspended from 9 March to 16 April. Throughout April it will fly to Hong Kong once daily rather than twice daily. It will also reduce its Osaka route from 12 to 10 weekly frequencies from 29 March to 24 October.
Finnair suspends all flights between Helsinki and MilanFinnair flights between Helsinki and Milan will be suspended between 9 March and 7 April, following an updated travel advisory from the Finnish Foreign Ministry on travel to Milan.
KLM cancels flights to Hong Kong and extends China flight suspensionsKLM has adjusted its flights to mainland China and Hong Kong. KLM has suspended its services to Beijing and Shanghai until 28 March and to Chengdu, Hangzhou and Xiamen until 3 May. KLM is also offering flights to Hong Kong every other day instead of daily flights until 3 May.
Lufthansa Group airlines to suspend flights to Israel The Lufthansa Group has announced that all flights to Israel will be suspended from 8 March until 28 March due to an Israeli government travel ban.
Norwegian cuts transatlantic servicesNorwegian says it will cancel a total of 22 long-haul flights between 28 March and 5 May. Affected routes include London-New York (where the three daily departures will be reduced to two on some days), and services from Rome to Los Angeles, Boston and New York.
Vietnam Airlines suspends all South Korea flightsVietnam Airlines said it will temporarily suspend all flights between Vietnam and South Korea starting 5 March.
Virgin Atlantic waives flight change fees for March bookingsVirgin Atlantic has announced it will not charge passengers a fee for changing flights for travel booked from Wednesday 4 March until Tuesday 31 March.
UPDATE: 2 MARCH 12:00
Several airlines have announced updates and changes due to the on-going Covid-19 outbreak. Here is a summary of some of the latest announcements:
British Airways reduces flights to Italy, Seoul and SingaporeBritish Airways is “merging” a number of flights to Italy, Singapore and Seoul, as it reacts to a fall in demand called by coronavirus.
American Airlines suspends flights to MilanAmerican Airlines has announced it is suspending flights to and from Milan, Italy from both New York (JFK) and Miami (MIA) from March until 25 April 2020.
Korean Air cuts international flightsKorean Air has suspended and reduced flights to a number of international destinations due to the outbreak in South Korea.
Delta to cut flights to Seoul until end of AprilDelta is temporarily reducing flights it operates between the US and Seoul Incheon Airport.
Juneyao Airlines to delay the launch of three Europe routes Shanghai-based Juneyao Airlines will delay the launch of three new transcontinental routes from Shanghai to Dublin, Manchester and Reykjavik, all with a stop in Helsinki, which it initially planned to launch in late March this year.
Lufthansa Group to cut short-haul operations by “up to 25 per cent”Lufthansa Group says it will cut its short-haul operations in the coming weeks, “As a result of the current situation caused by the accelerated spread of the coronavirus”.
easyJet to halt recruitment and offer unpaid leaveeasyJet said that it had seen “a significant softening of demand and load factors into and out of our Northern Italian bases”, as well “slower demand across our other European markets”. The airline said that as a result it would be cancelling “some flights, particularly those into and out of Italy, while continuing to monitor the situation and adapting our flying programme to support demand”.
UPDATE: 26 FEBRUARY 14:01
The National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) has provided updated general advice for foreign travel and how individuals can help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses during the COVID-19 outbreak and specific advice for those travelling to category one locations (Wuhan city and Hubei Province (China); Iran; Daegu or Cheongdo (South Korea); and any Italian town under containment measures) or category two locations (Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, north Italy, Japan, Laos, Macao, Malaysia, Myanmar, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam).
The Department for Health and Social Care and Public Health England have published the latest public advice on Coronavirus (COVID-19) here and will update this page with the latest situation in the UK at 14:00 every day, until further notice.
UPDATE: 7 FEBRUARY 13:30
Virgin Atlantic has issued the following advice:
Due to the ongoing situation with the Coronavirus the following Governments have made the decision to restrict entry for foreign visitors who have travelled to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau).
Customers due to travel to:
Antigua or Barbuda who have been to China (excluding
Hong Kong and Macau) in the last 28 days, will not be allowed to travel
Antiguan nationals are exempt
from
the restriction however will be subject to quarantine for 14 days on
arrival if they have travelled to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau)
in the last 28 days
Montego
Bay Jamaica who have been to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau) in the last 14 days, will not be allowed to travel
Jamaican nationals are exempt
from
the restriction however will be subject to quarantine for 14 days on
arrival if they have travelled to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau)
in the last 14 days
Tel Aviv Israel
who have been to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau) in the last 14 days, will not be allowed to travel
Israeli nationals are exempt from
the
restriction however may be subject to quarantine on arrival if they
have travelled to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau) in the last 14
days
Mumbai, Delhi India
who have been to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau)
in the last 14 days, will not be allowed to travel
Indian nationals are exempt
from
the restriction however may be subject to quarantine on arrival if they
have travelled to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau) in the last 14
days
St. Lucia
who have been to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau)
in the last 14 days, will not be allowed to travel
St Lucia nationals are exempt
from
the restriction however will be subject to quarantine for 14 days on
arrival if they have travelled to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau)
in the last 14 days
Grenada
who have been to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau)
in the last 14 days, will not be allowed to travel
Grenada nationals are exempt
from
the restriction however will be subject to quarantine for 14 days on
arrival if they have travelled to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau)
in the last 14 days
Trinidad and Tobago
who have been to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau)
in the last 14 days, will not be allowed to travel
Trinidad and Tobago nationals are exempt from the restriction however may be subject to quarantine on arrival if they have travelled to China (excluding Hong Kong and Macau) in the last 14 days.
Contact your GTM Account Manager for details of any refunds due on flights booked.
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office continues to offer the following advice:
1. The FCO advise against all travel to Hubei Province due to the ongoing novel coronavirus outbreak.
2. The FCO advise against all but essential travel to the rest of mainland China (not including Hong Kong and Macao). The British Consulates-General in Wuhan and Chongqing are currently closed. If you’re in China and able to leave, you should do so. The elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions may be at heightened risk.
3. The Chinese government continues to impose further restrictions on movement within China in response to the coronavirus outbreak. These restrictions include the closure of some provincial highways and inter-city high speed rail, tight control on entry and exit to villages and townships across the country, and restrictions on movement within some provinces, cities and municipalities including Chongqing, Zhejiang and Anhui. Some airlines, including British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, have announced a suspension of flights to and from mainland China. Other commercial airlines are still operating, but it may become harder to access departure options over the coming weeks.
4. A number of countries have announced restrictions on entry by travellers from China in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Given the fast-changing situation, you should check the latest FCO travel advice (including entry requirements) for your destination and anywhere you are transiting through, and check with your airline before you travel.
UPDATE: 30 JANUARY 16:10
British Airways has issued a customer update confirming the planned end date of their current cancellations, in response to the coronavirus outbreak. The airline confirms that Shanghai and Beijing flights will be cancelled for all dates up to and including 29 February 2020. Flights to Hong Kong are unaffected.
British Airways issued a customer statement on 30 January, providing confirmation of the dates during which flights to mainland China will be cancelled.
UPDATE: 29 JANUARY 14:30
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office has issued the following, additional information for travellers to China:
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office advise against all travel to Hubei Province due to the ongoing novel coronavirus outbreak. If you’re in this area and able to leave, you should do so.
The FCO advise against all but essential travel to the rest of mainland China (not including Hong Kong and Macao). The Chinese government continue to impose further restrictions on movement within China in response to the coronavirus outbreak. Some airlines, including British Airways, have suspended flights to and from mainland China. Other commercial airlines are still operating, but it may become harder over the coming weeks for those who wish to leave China to do so. If you feel that you may want to leave China soon, you should consider making plans to do so before any further restrictions may be imposed.
Due to increasing travel restrictions and difficulty accessing medical assistance, the FCO is working to make an option available for British nationals to leave Hubei Province. This may happen quickly and with short notice. If you’re a British national in Hubei Province and need assistance, contact our 24/7 number +86 (0) 10 8529 6600 or the FCO in London on (+44) (0)207 008 1500. If you have registered your desire to leave, you will be contacted once arrangements are confirmed.
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office has issued update travel advice:
We are working to make available an option for British nationals to leave Hubei province. If you are a British national in Hubei Province and require assistance, please contact:
· our 24/7 number +86 (0) 10 8529 6600 · or the FCO (+44) (0)207 008 1500
We continue to monitor developments closely and are in close touch with the Chinese authorities. The safety and security of British nationals is always our primary concern.
Following media reports of an outbreak of a new virus, we have compiled a number of resources that provide the latest advice for business travellers.
About Wuhan novel coronavirus
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses with some causing less-severe disease, such as the common cold, and others causing more severe disease such as Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) coronaviruses.
The source of the Wuhan novel coronavirus (WN-CoV) outbreak has yet to be determined. Preliminary investigations identified environmental samples positive for WN-CoV in Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan City.
Although evidence is still emerging, information to date indicates human-to-human transmission is occurring.
Enhanced monitoring has been put in place from all direct flights from Wuhan to the UK. The enhanced monitoring package includes a number of measures that will help to provide advice to travellers if they feel unwell.
Dr Nick Phin, Deputy Director, National Infection Service, Public Health England, said:
This is a new and rapidly evolving situation where information on cases and the virus is being gathered and assessed daily. Based on the available evidence, the current risk to the UK is considered low. We are working with the WHO and other international partners, have issued advice to the NHS and are keeping the situation under constant review.
The risk to visitors to Wuhan is moderate reflecting an increase in the number of cases being identified in China and evidence that the virus has limited spread from person to person. If you are travelling to the area, you should maintain good hand, respiratory and personal hygiene and should avoid visiting animal and bird markets or people who are ill with respiratory symptoms. Individuals should seek medical attention if they develop respiratory symptoms within 14 days of visiting Wuhan, either in China or on their return to the UK. They should phone ahead before attending any health services and mention their recent travel to the city.
A Foreign & Commonwealth Office spokesperson said:
In light of the latest medical information, including reports of some person-to-person transmission, and the Chinese authorities’ own advice, we are now advising against all but essential travel to Wuhan.
The safety and security of British nationals is always our primary concern, and we advise British nationals travelling to China to remain vigilant and check our travel advice on gov.uk.
https://gtm.uk.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Coronoavirus-3.png312820Davehttps://gtm.uk.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Smarter-Better-Fairer-GTM-logo_02.pngDave2020-05-22 16:45:182020-06-11 12:43:10Coronavirus - a guide to the latest travel news and medical advice
