SOUTHEND Airport has pledged to bounce back stronger after the coronavirus pandemic and is continuing its cargo flights every day.

The airport, which had the majority of its flights grounded at the end of March, has insisted it is well positioned to return to full strength once lockdown restrictions are eased.

The reassurance comes in the wake of national news that some airports could face closure if travel restrictions continue for much longer.

Last week, flight tracking website Flightradar24 recorded just 711 departures from the UK’s ten biggest airports, compared to 7,865 in the week up to lockdown.

However, a spokesman for Southend Airport said: “The aviation industry is facing extraordinary challenges but Southend Airport has a strong roster of both passenger and cargo customers.

“It is well positioned to emerge from the crisis when passenger flights resume as expected later this year.

“We implemented our business continuity plan very quickly in February ensuring we were well prepared.

“The situation is continuously evolving and we continue to work with the Government and the airlines to ensure all precautions are in place ready to welcome passengers back to the airport when safe to do so.”

The airport has no commercial flights operating, but there are eight cargo flights operating each day at the airport.

In October, three cargo night flights were first announced with a “global logistics firm”, which is believed to be Amazon.

The airport stated the ongoing cargo flights were important to support the economy and crews are following social distancing measures.

The spokesman added: “Eight cargo services a day ensure import and export of essential items.

"Strict protocol are being followed at all times; all aircraft are thoroughly cleaned after each rotation. The crew remains with the aircraft upon landing with no direct contact with ground staff."