BALPA says the Prime Minister’s announcement that international travel may be able recommence this summer is an essential lifeline, but that much more help is needed if this industry is to survive.

Brian Strutton, BALPA General Secretary, said:

“I am pleased the Prime Minister listened to BALPA’s pleas, and those from the whole airline industry, to have at least some idea of when international travel may resume.

“Airlines can now start to make effective plans and we can build the confidence of the travelling public to make bookings for summer flights.

“However, airlines and airports need financial support to survive until then because we have got at least three more months of grounded aircraft ahead, with virtually no revenue coming in to the airlines at all. I urge the Government to look urgently and seriously at an economic support package for the travel sector.”