Australian aviation sector unites on protocols ahead of easing restrictions

The Australian Airports Association (AAA) and Airlines for Australia & New Zealand (A4ANZ) have convened the Australian Aviation Recovery Coalition – with representatives of airports and airlines participating – to create protocols for safe air travel during COVID-19 and in the post-pandemic environment.

AAA’s A/CEO, Simon Bourke, said: “The aviation industry was one of the first and hardest hit as a result of unprecedented but necessary travel restrictions. As these restrictions are eased in line with the government’s three-step framework, the safe resumption of domestic travel is a goal shared by all in the travel and tourism sectors.”

A4ANZ CEO, Dr Alison Roberts, said: “As we face these unprecedented challenges together with our passengers, all of us in the Australian Aviation Recovery Coalition are committed to utilising evidence and expert advice to minimise risk at each stage of the journey, in ways that are practical, efficient and scalable as passenger volumes increase.

“We know that the measures we put in place will be critical to rebuilding consumer confidence in air travel and we are working constructively with the government to ensure a consistent approach.”

Bourke continued: “This is not just important for travellers. Enabling aviation to be a key part of driving Australia’s economic recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic is essential. In Australia, aviation contributes $104 billion to Australia’s economy and supports 716,000 jobs. We share the government’s desire for as many people as possible to have jobs on the other side of this crisis.”

Roberts concluded: “Our sector plays a vital role in providing Australians access to essential social, medical, business, financial and educational services, as well as moving important freight including life-saving medicines; and in encouraging growth in tourism and business.

“We are grateful to the government for its commitment to Australia’s aviation industry and the recognition that as a nation we are more dependent on aviation than most countries around the world. We look forward to continuing to work closely with the government as restrictions are eased, ensuring Australians can travel safely and with confidence.”