Master Air Pilot's letter to the Secretary of State

Dear Secretary of State

With UK aviation at a tipping point there is real concern the UK will not have a sustainable aviation sector unless the Government provides the same consideration and priority given to other business sectors. Airlines will face a major financial challenge when flying re-commences with low passenger confidence.

Our economy relies on a thriving aviation industry, which is led by demand for passenger and cargo connectivity. Subsidised overseas competitors are poised to take over as UK airlines contemplate withdrawal from London airports. Following Brexit the scene is set for the collapse of the sector just as we most need to establish new dynamic trade links. General aviation is under threat, we must retain our network of smaller airfields and flying schools to serve future generations.  It is vital the industry retains a highly skilled workforce to drive economic growth and help secure our place in the post-Brexit world.

Airliners provide higher air purity and confine passengers for less time than other transports. Airports are adapting check-in, security and boarding controls to current needs. We welcome the government’s consideration of quarantine-free air bridges for passengers entering UK.

All industries are suffering, we simply ask the government to give the UK aviation sector, which annually contributed over £52 billion and supported over 960,000 jobs before the pandemic, the attention it deserves. A powerful UK airline sector is essential for Britain to trade its way out of the post covid-19 recession.

Airlines need universal health protocols and clarity from the government - in other words a road map to normal with time estimates for the necessary milestones. Other nations, including the US and EU states, are investing now so their airlines survive to thrive in the future.

Yours sincerely

Captain J P Towell
Master