SARS-hit airlines call for help

By Paul Norris

ASIA’s airlines are calling for urgent help from governments and the aviation industry as they struggle to cope with the effects of the SARS virus.

In a desperate letter to members, the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines said severe acute respiratory syndrome has had a “devastating effect” on carriers and the “dire situation” has to be recognised by regulators, airports and aircraft manufacturers.

Director-general Richard Stirland said: “People have simply stopped travelling, or worse been prevented from travelling by government action. Some members have slashed up to 50% of their frequencies.”

He called on airports to reduce charges, governments to take responsibility for insurance and security charges and suppliers to be sympathetic with prices.

AAPA member Cathay Pacific, one of 17 airlines in the group, has already cancelled 42% of its schedule as passengers stop travelling to its Hong Kong base, with the carrier warning staff it could be grounded if the virus continues.