sir michael: airlines in trouble before September 11

BMI British Midland chairman Sir Michael Bishop has admitted present airline troubles were coming before the events of September 11.

And he has insisted that current difficulties should not be used by European airlines as an excuse to gain an unfair advantage over UK carriers.

In a speech to the Airport Operators Association annual conference in Leeds, Sir Michael hit out at airlines such as Aer Lingus, Sabena and Alitalia which want state aid to survive.

“I am deeply disappointed by the example of some European governments who are caving in to political pressure. UK airlines must not be placed at a disadvantage,” he said.

“The truth is there are too many airlines chasing too many passengers. Too many countries view national carriers as status symbols.”

He called on the European Commission to outlaw state protectionism and back a truly competitive airline industry that allows foreign carriers to start effective consolidation in the industry.