The prime minister confirmed the implementation of the widely-rumoured new measure during a national address on Sunday (10 May).

Despite giving little detail during his speech, Johnson said he was “serving notice” that “it will soon be the time to impose quarantine on people coming into this country by air”.

He added: “It is because of your efforts to get the number of infections down here that this measure will now be effective."

Johnson said further details on coronavirus policy changes would be discussed in parliament on Monday (11 May).

During his speech, Johnson outlined a "first sketch of a roadmap for reopening society"  – featuring a new "Covid alert level” to track the severity of the virus in the coming weeks and months.

He said the high street could also see a "phased" reopening of shops in June under new guidelines to make workplaces “Covid-secure”.

The new restriction on arrivals, which is expected to begin at the end of May, is widely believed to involve people arriving in the UK having to self-isolate for 14 days at a private residence.

Government and aviation sources suggested to BBC News the rule could also see people having to provide an address when they arrive at the border. According to The Times ports will also be included.

It is understood authorities will carry out spot checks and anyone found breaking the rules would receive a fine of up to £1,000 or possibly deportation.

Aviation bodies have warned such a move could be extremely damaging for a sector already hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

Speaking during last week’s TTG Keep Your Business Alive III seminar, Karen Dee, chief executive of the Airports Operators Association warned the introduction of a 14 day quarantine would be devastating for UK airlines and airports.