With the invoking of Article 50 today, negotiations on the UK’s exit from the EU will now start. This will include new agreements with the EU and other countries like the US to replace existing EU-level agreements on aviation traffic rights, Chief Executive of the AOA Karen Dee said:
“The Prime Minister’s letter setting in motion the process for the UK’s withdrawal from the EU will enable us to work constructively with Government and European partners to build the deep and special partnership between the UK and the EU that the Prime Minister seeks.
“Aviation is a prime example of the benefits of such a deep and special partnership. Aviation is the principal means of travel for people travelling between the UK and the EU, enabling the flow of business and tourism. Our economies flourish thanks to our excellent aviation connectivity, not least because 40% of the UK’s trade by value travels by air.
“We share the Government’s confidence that new agreements on air traffic rights with the EU and countries like the US and Canada can be secured. The alternative – the disappearance of the legal framework for around 85% of the UK’s air traffic with no WTO-style fall-back option – would be very disruptive for both sides.
“As there is no fall-back option, we are pleased to see the Prime Minister’s strong emphasis on giving business, including in aviation, as much certainty as possible. Airlines and tour operators will be confirming their 2019 flight schedules twelve to eighteen months in advance, underlining the need for clarity on implementation periods to adjust in a smooth and orderly way to new arrangements. This will ensure business and consumer confidence in our future connectivity.
“We look forward to working closely with the Government and our EU partners to secure a new partnership that works for everyone.”
