18/09/2001

Airline bosses in crisis talks with Transport Secretary

UK Transport Secretary Stephen Byers has met with airline bosses to discuss the damage that last week’s terrorist attacks in the US has caused to the industry.

The meeting follows news that the UK’s second largest long haul airline, Virgin Atlantic is to shed 1,200 jobs - 13 per cent of its workforce - and that over 60,000 employees at British Airways are awaiting a similar announcement of job cuts.

The bosses of both companies have called on the UK government to give financial support to the airlines. Responding to the calls, Mr Byers has promised to set up a committee immediately to examine issues including airport tax, insurance and fuel costs.

Discussions to offer financial aid packages are already underway in the US and the European Union. The British Airline Pilots Association (BALPA), which represents almost all Britain’s airline pilots, said the UK government should give financial support to the airlines. US airlines have requested $24bn in financial aid from the American government.

According to the White House, President Bush has ordered a ‘comprehensive’ package to support the industry, although details of precise measures have not yet been revealed. (CD)

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