'Liberal Access' To European Markets To Be A 'Top Priority'

The U.K. government says that "liberal access" to European aviation markets will be a "top priority" in its negotiations for leaving the European Union.

A joint statement from the Secretary of State for Exiting the EU, the Secretary of State for Transport and the Chief Executive of Airlines UK – the association of UK airlines, indicates that aviation is "absolutely crucial to the UK’s economy and building a global Britain that seizes the opportunities exiting the EU presents.

"As an island nation with global reach, we have the largest aviation network in Europe and the third largest in the world, handling over 250 million passengers and 2.3 million (metric tons) of cargo last year. The UK has direct connections to over 370 international destinations, more than any other EU country," the statement reads.

"We will work closely together to ensure that this international industry continues to be a major success story for the UK economy – contributing around £20 billion (approx. $25 billion) in 2014 alone – and better understand what risks and opportunities exist. We also share a determination to give as much early certainty to the sector as possible, given the long lead in times associated with developing new routes – and to supporting the sector as much as possible in the interim.

"Market access remains a top priority, and we want to make sure we have liberal access to European aviation markets. We will also work closely to explore new opportunities for further liberalization. We are clear that Brexit provides greater freedom to seek new agreements between the UK and some third countries. This includes looking at possible bilateral agreements to strengthen economic and cultural ties even further with countries such as the US and Canada.

"Other areas of critical importance to address during negotiations include aviation safety, security, air traffic management, passenger rights, customs, and the environment. We will continue to engage with the industry on these issues throughout.

"We also share a determination to continue investment in the industry and to secure the best possible deal for UK aviation. We want to work together to build on all this with a common aim to ensure that the industry – and therefore the country – remains prosperous and open for business," the statement concludes.

(Source: Airlines UK news release. Images from file)

FMI: http://airlinesuk.org