Southend Airport is opening its doors to passengers today for the first time in three months after closing due to Covid-19.

It comes after yesterday's shock announcement from EasyJet, who are potentially closing their base at the airport imminently. 

Whilst the pandemic stopped meant passengers temporarily couldn't fly from the airport, it still continued with cargo operations and repatriation flights without issue.

To mark the big day, airport CEO Glyn Jones cut a rainbow ribbon in honour of NHS workers at the re-opening ceremony for the Malaga flight with Ryanair.

Glyn Jones, CEO of Stobart Aviation, said: “We have worked extremely hard to ensure measures are in place to create a biosphere within the terminal, delivering confidence to our customers.

"As London’s most modern airport, the terminal design and space supports social distancing and allows approximately 17 square metres per passenger during busy times. “

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Services are expected to resume throughout July from airline partners including Ryanair, Wizz Air and Flyone plus a new route to Norway which will start in August with Wideroe.

Whilst a reduced schedule is operated initially, the latest flight information is available via airlines directly. Southend Airport will provide updates as they become available.

A range of safety measures have been introduced within the terminal to keep staff and passengers safe, from mandatory face coverings and only allowing those travelling inside, to enhanced cleaning and bio-screens at all face to face locations.

Hand sanitisation stations will also be available every 20 paces of the terminal journey, installation of temperature cameras as passengers approach security e-gates and a new next generation security scanner which will enable liquids and laptops to remain within bags.

Glyn added: “We are reducing touch points throughout the journey to limit potential spread of the virus, deep cleaning will take place nightly whilst the cleaning team will be sanitising handrails and surfaces throughout the day.

"We are committed to safety and continue discussions for further investments into innovations for the airport.”