Pictures from packed Belfast/London flight provokes angry backlash

The BBC photograph was taken from the back of the plane towards the front so it was unclear how many of those one board were wearing any personal protective equipment, however, the BBC journalist said only two people wore facemasks.

The image provoked an angry reaction on social media from a large number of people who complained that the widespread observance of the social-distancing measures were being rendered less effected by flights full of passengers travelling in a high-risk environment.

Several questioned why the full flights of people were not deemed illegal in the current climate, and whether faces masks should be compulsory if the flights are allowed to continue,

One Twitter user responded to the BBC tweet, saying: “Surely the passengers know the risks and prepared appropriately? All essential travel I am assuming!”

Another said: “Why are key health workers risking our lives for this to happen without any regard for safety”.

Belfast International Airport has been closed for passenger flights for a number of weeks, while Belfast City is operating only a small fraction of its normal passenger service to London.

Responding to the BBC story, another Twitter user said: “Two Aer Lingus return flights a day from City Airport to Heathrow, it’s been happening every day since lockdown so no big surprise or shock.”

In a statement, Aer Lingus said: “In light of the unexpectedly high loads on the Belfast–London Heathrow service this morning and the level of demand for the route, Aer Lingus is reviewing its processes and procedures applicable to the operation of this service.

“The safety and security of Aer Lingus’s customers and crew is our top priority and any process changes that are identified as being required will be implemented as a matter of urgency.”