Three global airline alliances – Oneworld, Skyteam and Star
Alliance – have joined forces to call on governments and stakeholders to
support the aviation industry through the “unprecedented challenges” posed by
the Covid-19 pandemic.
The alliances, which represent 60 airlines around the world
that contribute to more than half of global capacity, are supporting a request
from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for regulators to
suspend slot usage rules for the summer 2020 flying season as carriers continue
to cut capacity due to falling passenger demand.
So-called ‘use it or lose it’ rules have already been
relaxed in the US until 31 May by the Federal Aviation Administration, while
the EU Commission will suspend the rule through June.
However, the alliances said they are urging other regulators
to follow suit and have asked for an extension to existing waivers.
In addition, they are asking airport operators to evaluate
landing charges and fees to mitigate the financial pressure on airlines that
are experience a significant decrease in passenger numbers.
Oneworld CEO Rob Gurney said: “During such times of
difficulty and uncertainty, it is important that the airline industry works
even closer with stakeholders to mitigate adverse impacts from the virus and
collaborate in areas within our control. Governments must implement the measures
they consider necessary to contain the spread of Covid-19, and must be prepared
for the widescale economic implications that will result from those measures.”
Kristin Colvile, CEO and MD of Skyteam, commented: “The
human and financial impact that the Covid-19 outbreak is having on the aviation
industry is unprecedented. Skyteam, with its alliance partners, and on behalf of
member airlines, is urging all involved institutions and industry stakeholders
to face these extraordinary times with exceptional measures. This includes action
such as slot relief, airport and overflight fees reduction.”
Star Alliance CEO Jeffrey Goh added: “The unprecedented
circumstances triggered by the coronavirus outbreak pose an existential threat
not only to the airline industry but more generally to global trade and
commerce, and social connectivity. As airlines stretch their limits to manage
the crisis, it is equally critical for governments and stakeholders to avoid
further burdens and step up with measures, as some have, that will ensure the future
of the travel industry.”