EU to Extend Select Measures to Support Coronavirus-hit Aviation Sector

Photo source: European Parliament

Some of the measures adopted to ease the financial pressure on aviation operators and groundhandlers in the EU will be extended into 2021, according to recommendations in a new European Commission report.

It is reminded that, in response to coronavirus (Covid-19) measures that saw planes grounded around the EU, the Commission has announced rules amending parts of the Air Services Regulation.

“The measures introduced in May provided much-needed relief for Europe’s aviation sector, so I am fully behind their extension where justified by the ongoing conditions,” EU Transport Commissioner Adina Vălean said.

Measures to be extended

The new report recommends extending the derogations linked to operating licences and the selection of groundhandlers, due to expire on 31 December 2020, by one year.

More specifically, airlines in temporary financial difficulty will be allowed to keep their operating licence and airports will continue to be allowed to urgently replace their groundhandling service provider should it suddenly go bankrupt.

According to the report, the extension of the derogations is justified by the ongoing pandemic and its impact on air traffic, which is likely to continue into 2021.

Flexibility on flight bans will not be extended

Photo source: European Parliament

However, the Commission will not extend the flexibility offered since May on the prolonged flight restrictions, as effective health and sanitary measures have been found to be more effective at controlling the spread of the virus.

“As we continue the fight against the pandemic and prepare the ground for recovery, a coordinated response will be essential. We do not consider flight bans effective in containing the pandemic, so will not be extending the derogation providing more flexibility to Member States on flight bans,” Commissioner Vălean said.

Moreover, the Commission will not give an extension to the current derogation allowing the lengthening of groundhandling contracts until 31 December 2022, which made it easier for them to access loans.

The Commission said it does not consider the specific measure necessary “at this stage”, but will continue to monitor the situation.

The report, which has been delivered to the Council and European Parliament, concluded that the Commission would continue to review the situation in aviation, and consider further measures when justified to help the sector weather the crisis and recover.