Pilots hope to work with government to shape the future of aviation following a “constructive” meeting with sector minister Robert Courts MP.
The British Airline Pilots’ Association (Balpa) met the aviation minister to present its plans for recovery of the sector following almost two years of pandemic disruption.
Balpa called for:
- An acknowledgement that border restrictions damage to the industry but do little to inhibit the spread of the latest variant
- A proportionate approach to future variants with any future rules to be evidence based, simple and consistent
- For government to recognise the importance of aviation and to support the sector as its decarbonises and leads the world in sustainable connectivity.
The minister pledged to look over the ideas with the union seeing the meeting as strengthening communication and co-operation between the pilot profession, aviation industry and government.
Balpa general secretary Martin Chalk said: “Our aviation recovery plan will help release the brakes on the long-term national recovery so aviation can be the real engine of the country’s global ambitions.
“We hope this meeting signals greater co-operation between the industry and those in the corridors of power.”
The association’s executive president Paul Naylor added: “Pilots have a great understanding of not only the challenges facing the aviation industry, but also of the value of UK aviation to our economy.
“We want the government to use our expertise and listen to industry voices as it shapes the supportive environment for our collective future.”
Courts said: “It was a pleasure to meet Balpa and I thank them for a constructive meeting and for the helpful report.
“We have stood side by side with the aviation sector throughout Covid-19, and I look forward to working even more closely together in the months and years ahead as we restore UK aviation to its world leading position.”