Heathrow "committed" to remaining open throughout COVID-19 outbreak

Heathrow Airport has issued a statement in response to the COVID-19 pandemic outlining steps it will take to remain open.

The airport plans to reorganise and shrink its operation in order to remain open, allowing some passenger services to continue as well as cargo operations.

Measures already taken include the reduction of operating costs, the cancellation of executive pay, freezing recruitment and reviewing all capital projects.

In its statement, Heathrow commented: “The spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) represents a seismic challenge for the global aviation industry - including Heathrow.

“Whilst we remain committed to remaining open, Heathrow’s financial performance will be significantly impacted by this unprecedented situation. We are taking a number of immediate actions to safeguard the financial resilience of the business.

“Prudent management over the past decade means that our business is well funded and in a robust financial position, with cash and committed facilities available of £3.3bn designed to maintain at least a 12-month liquidity horizon.”