Sharm El-Sheikh restrictions lifted

Restrictions imposed four years ago on flights to Sharm El-Sheikh were lifted by the government last week.

Officials said improvements in security procedures at Sharm El-Sheikh Airport and close co-operation between the UK and Egypt on aviation security meant commercial airlines could now be allowed to operate.

The government said it would work with carriers that had expressed an interest in operating flights as they develop their plans.

Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: “The safety and security of British nationals remains our top priority and this decision follows close co-operation between our aviation security experts and their Egyptian counterparts, and improvements in security procedures at the airport."

The ban was imposed after a Metrojet Airbus A320 charter flight with 224 passengers and crew was brought down in the Sinai on 31 October 2015 after take-off from Sharm El-Sheikh by what was believed to be a bomb placed on board at the airport.

An easyJet spokesperson: “We are aware of the lifting of the restriction on UK airlines flying into Sharm el Sheikh Airport and will look at any opportunities for easyJet and easyJet holidays as a result.”

www.gov.uk/government/news/government-lifts-restrictions-on-flights-to-sharm-el-sheikh

www.easyjet.com

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