Airline slots UK - The future

New UK Transport Secretary Mark Harper announced a variation of airport slots rules on Tuesday 31 January at the Airport Operators’ Association’s (AOA) annual conference.  He was the first Transport Minister to speak at the gathering, and was made very welcome.

“Today, I can confirm that slots rules will return to normal this summer,” he said. “But we’re maintaining the safety net introduced during Covid…and airlines can hand back 5% of slots to help minimise last-minute cancellations.”

“Now we’re able to start a new, more optimistic, conversation about the future. About an industry no longer constrained by outdated practices, but modernising its infrastructure and operations.”

The Government has submitted rules before Parliament to reinstate the airport slots rules for this summer season that are in line with pre-pandemic levels.

Beginning 26 March, airlines will be required to use their slots 80% of the time to retain them.

Airline companies will also have the option not to use their allocated slots if the end of a route is affected by Covid-19 restrictions.

It will help airlines avoid flying empty planes just to make the slots usage ratio.

The Government is said to have made this decision after consulting with the sector on how it can facilitate aviation industry recovery and ensure slots get utilised where there is demand. 

Unless the receiver can find a buyer for Flybe (see in this month's TNU)  its slots will be worthless and available.  

www.acl-uk.org

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