Low-cost airline Ryanair has said it expects the “grounding of the majority of its aircraft fleet” across Europe over the next 7 to 10 days.

A Ryanair statement said: “In those countries where the fleet is not grounded, social distancing restrictions may make flying to all intents and purposes, impractical, if not, impossible.”

Boss Michael O’Leary says they are organising rescue flights to repatriate customers, even in those countries where travel bans have been imposed.

The airline believes it “can, and will, with appropriate and timely action, survive through a prolonged period of reduced or even zero flight schedules”.