High speed domestic rail services proposed by the Government should not come at the cost of air travel, according to Abta.
The association was responding to transport secretary Philip Hammond’s announcement at the Conservative Party conference that the Government has approved financing of a high speed rail link from London to Birmingham and on to Manchester and Leeds.
While broadly welcoming the move, Abta stressed that the Government must recognise that high speed rail offers a unique opportunity to create a more integrated transport infrastructure.
The association called on Hammond to commit to an extension of the high speed network to Heathrow and other airports throughout the country.
“High speed rail is only one part of this infrastructure and should not come at the cost of air travel, especially as the Government does not expect the new link to begin service before 2025,” Abta said
Head of public affairs Luke Pollard said: “A 21st century high speed rail network will be a very welcome addition to our public transport network.
“It will not, however, replace the need for efficient and modern airport infrastructure, particularly for international travel. Philip Hammond says that his Government has no issue with particular modes of transport but does with carbon emissions.
“We call on his Government to recognise the essential role of aviation for both business and leisure.”