Aviation’s an easy target for criticism, but hopefully the world’s governments now realise just how important the sector is as they rebuild their economies.
American Airlines is utilizing its currently grounded passenger aircraft to move cargo between the US and Europe, underscoring the importance of its routes for trade.
The EU-Israel Open Skies agreement that was fully implemented in 2018 has stimulated competition, with Wizz Air, easyJet and Ryanair among the airlines growing swiftly.
Air transport in Moldova has grown strongly in recent years following an agreement signed in 2012 to gradually integrate the country into the European common aviation market.
Governments across Europe must coordinate their response to preserve the continent’s single market and its benefits, two airline associations have urged.
The three global airline alliances—oneworld, SkyTeam and Star Alliance—have jointly called on governments around the world to “evaluate all possible means” to support the industry amid the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak.
Ryanair expects “the majority” of its fleet will be grounded while Finnair and SAS are among the latest airlines to stop almost all flights. Air France is also grounding its entire Airbus A380 fleet and KLM its entire Boeing 747 fleet.