Tuesday 24 November 2020
Commenting on the announcement of a test-and-release system for international travellers and new financial support for English airports, Airport Operators Association Chief Executive Karen Dee said:
“UK airports have been amongst the hardest-hit sectors by the pandemic and these announcements are a much-needed boost as aviation looks to bounce back from the greatest challenge it has ever faced.
“We welcome the work of the Global Travel Taskforce. A robust test-and-release system will boost the safe restart of international travel, increase consumer confidence and pave the way towards an open Global Britain. We look forward to building on this big step forward by working with the Taskforce on the future opportunities outlined – such as pre-departure tests and the use of cheaper and faster testing methods – to make international travel ever easier and ultimately eliminate any need for quarantine altogether.
“Alongside this, we are pleased that the Government has listened to our calls for business rates relief for airports in England. The measures announced today will provide much-needed support to many embattled airports, helping them through the challenging months ahead.
“However, not all airports will see full business rates relief and all of aviation will continue to face considerable challenges over the coming months and years. We will therefore need to continue to work with Government on what other steps can be taken to safeguard the UK’s aviation businesses.”
ENDS
