Wales introduces similar approach to England and Scotland for restart of international travel
Similar to the system implemented in England and Scotland, Wales has introduced a traffic light system for those intending to travel internationally.
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Similar to the system implemented in England and Scotland, Wales has introduced a traffic light system for those intending to travel internationally.
AOA's Chief Executive, Karen Dee, has stressed that the UK's "economic recovery hinges upon allowing the safe re-opening of international travel."
Similar to the new rules outlined by the UK government for England, the Scottish government has introduced a traffic light system for international travel.
From 17 May 2021, the UK government will implement a traffic light system, developed by the Global Travel Taskforce, to begin the restart of international travel.
Ahead of the 2021 Scottish elections, AOA has published a manifesto outlining how the new Scottish government can support the country's aviation industry.
Under a new traffic light system, countries will be designated one of three risk levels as part of the UK government's efforts to restart international travel.
Following a report published in July 2020 by the Airspace Change Organising Group, the UK government has announced £5.5 million in funding to support the UK's airspace modernisation programme.
By the end of 2020, passenger numbers at UK airports fell to levels not seen since 1985, with only 73.8 million passengers reported, most of which travelled in the first three months of the year.
As part of its efforts to build back better from the pandemic and improve connectivity, the UK government has set out a range of measures for the UK’s aviation and transportation network.
The UK's aviation industry has expressed its displeasure with the UK Chancellor's Budget 2021, which mostly avoided mentioning any support specifically for aviation.
AOA and AGS Airports have expressed their disappointment in the Scottish government's lack of a recovery plan or framework for Scotland's aviation industry.
AOA has welcomed the UK government's acknowledgement of aviation's economic significance, but has stressed that the outlined date for the easing of international travel restrictions will only prolong the industry's struggle.
With the financial support provided by business rates relief only expected to assist English airports for approximately 13 days, the AOA has called on the UK government to implement an additional and more extensive financial scheme.
AOA has called for urgent additional, aviation-specific financial support from the UK and devolved governments in order to support the recovery of the industry.
The scheme will allow commercial airports and ground handlers to apply for up to £8 million each from the UK government to support with fixed costs.