UK airlines respond to Budget – “the most serious period for aviation since 9/11 but questions remain as to whether this fact is understood within Government.”

March 11th, 2020

Commenting on the Budget measures announced today, Tim Alderslade, Chief Executive of Airlines UK, the industry body representing UK-registered airlines, said:

“The review into the impact of APD on domestic aviation and the expectation that once the Brexit transition phase is over the double whammy on regional carriers will end is welcome. That said, APD as a whole – across all routes – is a damaging tax and completely counterproductive to the aims of making Britain a global trading nation.

“Just as disappointing is the complete lack of support for the sector’s net zero carbon strategy. UK aviation – alone amongst any national aviation sector in the world – has committed to net zero emissions by 2050 but this will not happen without the right policy levers from Government in encouraging new technologies and innovation like sustainable aviation fuels or electric flight.

“Aviation has been crying out for short-term support as we deal with an unprecedented crisis caused by coronavirus and the collapse of Flybe. This is the most serious period for the sector since 9/11 but questions remain as to whether this fact is understood within Government.”