Virgin Atlantic and Delta Air Lines are returning to their home in Terminal 3, which has been closed for over a year due to the Covid-19 pandemic on July 15.
Virgin Atlantic destinations including Antigua, Barbados, Grenada and Israel are all classified as “Green” on the Government’s travel list, which means customers are not required to self isolate on their return. Delta is operating nonstop services between Heathrow and both Atlanta and New York-JFK, however US entry restrictions for non-essential travellers from the UK still apply.
Corneel Koster, Chief Customer and Operating Officer, commented, “We’re delighted to finally be back on our home turf, and I know our teams can’t wait to warmly welcome our customers to Terminal 3, as they return to the skies in style, as they fly safe and well with Virgin Atlantic.
“Whilst it’s a constructive step that many of our customers can imminently enjoy our much-loved facilities the Government still needs to recognise the US as a “Green” destination. Whilst travel between the UK and US is closed, £23 million in economic value each day is restricted. We urge the UK Government to move the US to the UK’s ‘Green list’ and for the Biden administration to repeal the 212F proclamation for UK travellers.”
Nadia Clinton, Delta’s Regional Sales Manager, said: “Moving back to our home in Terminal 3 will allow our customers to once again enjoy the award-winning experience they have missed during the pandemic. Given current vaccination rates, we know customers can travel safely between our two countries. A recent study conducted by the Mayo Clinic, coupled with robust air filtration systems and mask mandates on board, put the risk of transmission on a plane traveling between the UK and US at 1 in 1 million. We implore the UK and US Governments to allow non-essential travel to resume.”