Solidarity between airlines has been urged to fight for the future of the European aviation sector.
The call came from the head of the European Regions Airline Association (ERA) after nine carriers became members, including UK-based Stobart Air, bringing numbers up to 61.
The bolstering of the membership base helped strengthen the message that the industry needs to join forces to lobby for “exceptional measures during these unprecedented times” to ensure aviation will survive and remain instrumental in rebuilding the new European economy once it moves to recovery, according to the association.
“As borders continue to remain closed and aircraft are grounded across the globe, the collaborative work of the aviation industry has never been more important,” the ERA added.
“Recognising this, nine airlines have joined airline association ERA to utilise its strong collective voice, bringing the total number of airline members to 61.
“This comes following several weeks of active lobbying initiatives by ERA on behalf of its 200-plus members in an attempt to mitigate the disastrous effects of Covid-19.”
Director general Montserrat Barriga said: “The situation is like nothing we have ever witnessed before, not in our lifetime or indeed our industry’s history.
“It’s at times like this that we need to come together to ensure our future and that of air transport globally.
“Solidarity has never been more needed, and we are pleased to welcome all of these new carriers to ERA, who agree we have a better chance to survive these challenging times by working together as one.
“Europe needs to acknowledge that aviation will be instrumental in its economic recovery, and paramount in the weeks and months to come in reuniting families and friends with their loved ones by providing vital connectivity.”