The UK’s transport secretary Chris Grayling and Steve Baker, the parliamentary under secretary of state at the Department for Exiting the European Union, have met with representatives from the aviation industry today to discuss how the sector can continue to flourish after the UK leaves the EU.
The meeting with senior representatives from the UK aviation industry follows the Prime Minister’s tour of the UK to mark one year until Brexit. It also follows an agreement made earlier this year between the UK and the EU regarding an implementation period, ensuring the aviation industry can continue to benefit from the existing liberal market access until the end of 2020. This paves the way for the UK to continue to participate in the European Aviation Safety Agency during the timeframe.
At the roundtable, representatives from industry and government ministers agreed it is in the interests of both the UK and the EU to secure a good deal for aviation as soon as practical in the future negotiations, ensuring businesses and citizens can continue to enjoy a high level of connectivity, choice and value for money.
Commenting on the meeting, Grayling said, “Aviation connectivity is crucial for businesses and citizens alike and it is vital that market access continues uninterrupted.
“It has been invaluable to discuss with industry leaders their priorities for a future deep and special partnership with the EU on aviation. We are confident that the UK will get a good deal which allows our aviation industry to continue to flourish.”
Karen Dee, chief executive of the Airport Operators Association (AOA), added, “With nearly three-quarters of visitors to the UK and 40% of the UK’s trade by value traveling by air, aviation provides the necessary international connectivity for a truly global Britain. UK airports stand ready to facilitate the connectivity of the future.
“We look forward to a continued dialog as the UK government and the EU begin negotiations on the future relationship to ensure that it allows the passenger to continue to benefit from excellent air connectivity, whether they live and work in the EU, UK or beyond.”