Heathrow Airport is set to close one of its runways within the next week as air traffic throughout the world drops dramatically – due to the Covid-19 epidemic.
The air hub in the west of London – which has two runways - is set to use just one strip for landing and take-off operations as a statement said; 'to increase resilience for staff, passengers and cargo during the coronavirus crisis”.
A spokesperson for Heathrow Airport said: “Although we are looking at significantly fewer flights at the moment, Heathrow will remain open for as long as possible so that we can continue to play a crucial role in helping to secure vital medical goods during this unprecedented epode.
A BA spokesperson said: “Our colleagues have a done a brilliant job keeping vital routes open to reunite customers with their family and bringing in supplies to our hospitals factories and shops”.
As Britain’s largest airport, it is part of International Consolidated Airlines Group SA
As per the UK government’s furlough scheme, staff at the airport will be paid 80% of their pay plus 80% of their allowance.
Heathrow Airport will alternate use of each individual runway on a week-by-week .basis.
The travel industry has taken a massive hit with airlines – around the world - suspending schedules.
