The British Airline Pilots Association (BALPA) has welcomed the Government announcement of a financial support scheme for airports, but has renewed its call for an aviation wide COVID-19 recovery plan.

BALPA General Secretary Brian Strutton said:

“We are pleased our message that aviation needs real support is being heard. This support for airports is a good step, but we must ensure that no part of the UK aviation sector is overlooked.

“On top of Thursdays announcement of 1100 Norwegian Air jobs at risk, a major US tour operator has now said it will look at other hubs for European trips instead of London. The situation is becoming desperate.

“The industry as a whole is really suffering and we continue to urge the Government to commit to a full action plan for aviation with targeted packages of support for the whole sector.”