Even with publication of the green list, aviation sector needs more support

Prospect has responded to the announcement of the traffic light system for international travel to England from 17 May. Thousands of Prospect members’ jobs in aviation and other sectors depend on international travel.

Mike Clancy, Prospect General Secretary said:

“Finally the aviation industry has more clarity from on reopening, but with little more than a week to go until the new rules come into force, there is now precious little time to prepare.

“Given the limited countries on the green list passenger numbers will remain depressed, making it hard for the industry to recover and jobs to be saved. The government must clarify how and when changes for June will be agreed, the criteria that will be used and when the announcement will be made to allow plans to be put in place.

“But with the furlough scheme running down, Prospect has also been calling for a much needed specific support package for the sector. The government must act now to support the whole sector, airports, air traffic control and the supply chain as well as airlines.

“If they don’t, lifeline services could be at risk, and in the longer term so many workers will have left the industry it will hinder any recovery. Without a recovery for our aviation sector there will be no wider economic recovery, no levelling up, and our future as an international destination will be at risk.”