The European Regions Airline Association (ERA) has again called for a reciprocal aviation agreement between the EU and the UK to be finalised 'urgently' to prevent serious harm to European air connectivity after Brexit.

ERA has written to the European Commission and UK Department of Transport urging them to act now, saying the challenges caused by Brexit are unsurmountable and airlines have not had (enough) time to prepare, plan and react.

 

Montserrat Barriga, ERA director general said: “I was deeply saddened to learn that ERA member flybmi had filed for administration on 16 February. Rising fuel and carbon costs coupled with the uncertainty, unfairness and challenges surrounding Brexit led to the airline ceasing all operations.

 

“I will once again be in direct contact with the European Commission and the UK Department of Transport ... to persuade them to act immediately. It is imperative that they put in place a comprehensive agreement for aviation that mirrors the current situation with the UK as the highest priority, and that they reach a solution that will allow airlines to continue operating as they do today, enabling Europeans to continue benefiting from affordable and stress-free travel.”