Most people arriving in Britain will have to self-isolate for two weeks under a new coronavirus restriction that has been roundly condemned by the ailing aviation sector, AFP reported.

The measure, which applies to both residents and visitors with some exceptions, aims to prevent a second wave of contagion from abroad. To enter Britain by plane, train, road or sea, travellers must provide details of their journey and the address where they will self-isolate.

Exemptions are being made in several cases — including for lorry drivers, “essential” healthcare workers and people travelling from Ireland who have been there for at least two weeks.

Authorities in England will carry out spot checks and those breaching the rules could be punished with a 1,000 ($1,250 / 1,125-euro) fine or prosecution.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the new rules made sense because “the proportion of infections that come from abroad increases” as Britain's own caseload drops.