COVID-19 STRAIN: Russia Extends Flights Restriction to the United Kingdom till 2021

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Russian made aircraft, Antonov An-72RF. Now certified for commercial passenger operation

Government of the Federating States of the Federal Republic of Russia has announced the extension of the earlier air travel ban to and from the United Kingdom, UK, till the 12^th of January 2021.

The concerned government agency, Response Center for Prevention of Import and Spread of the Novel Coronavirus Infection, made the decision and placed in the public domain.

The agency said the decision was made with the view to secure the health of her population. The statement further said that all air traffic between Russia and the United Kingdom had been placed on suspension until 23.59hours on 12^th January 2021.

This ban, in essence, means that no flight can be initiated from either of the countries to each other until the 12th January 2021.

However, the initial air travel restriction will expire by 31^st December 2020, but a nation that places high premium on its citizenry doesn’t place economic benefits ahead of the preservation of lives.

Recalled that on Saturday, 19^th December, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced stricter coronavirus measures in London, the South East and East of England amid concerns about the spread of a new strain of the virus which may be up to 70% more transmissible.

Johnson introduced the fourth tier of COVID-19 restrictions in the regions, as well as unveiling tighter plans around households gathering during Christmas.

**United Kingdom Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, in a pensive mood. Many worries. Brexit flag off, more dangerous strain of COVID-19, bailout occasioned by the pandemic**, etc

The devolved governments of Wales and Scotland Wales also announced new measures same day.

All of Wales was placed into the highest level of lockdown (tier 4) with all non-essential shops closing.

Meanwhile, cross-border travel had been banned in Scotland. Scottish First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, announced a strict travel ban from Scotland to the rest of the UK throughout the festive season.

The WHO said it was in “close contact” with the UK about the new strain of the virus, with the international health body and Britain sharing information and analysis about the outbreak.

England’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty, said the UK had informed WHO about the development after modelling showed a rapid spread in South

East England. During a Press Conference, the UK government’s Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir Patrick Vallance, said the new coronavirus strain is thought to have emerged in the UK in mid-September. By December, it was responsible for more than 60% of infections in London, Vallance said