The union, which represents more than 65,000 workers in aviation, has launched a new campaign and film calling on MPs to support its efforts to secure the “bespoke package” for airlines discussed by chancellor Rishi Sunak on 17 March. 

Unite said the recent news of at least 28,000 potential job cuts in the sector and associated industries were evidence action was needed swiftly.

It also highlighted the more than 1.2 million UK jobs related to aviation, its contribution of £22 million to GDP and the sector’s help in delivering vital medicines and PPE to health workers during the Covid-19 pandemic as reasons for government to urgently step in.

Unite called on the UK to “follow in the footsteps” of other international governments such as those of the US, Germany and France to support their aviation sectors.

Assistant general secretary Diana Holland said: “The government has the future of the aviation sector in its hands.  

"The clock is at five to midnight.  We cannot have further delay - we urgently need that programme of support promised two months ago to emerge in order to stabilise this very vulnerable sector and avert massive job losses.

“The impact of Covid-19 throughout aviation has been devastating and it is recognised worldwide that it requires a strategic package of government support as it rebuilds and as confidence is restored.

“Aviation is central to our economy and in linking people together, connecting regions connectivity and providing jobs.  A package to support these is also a real opportunity to green the industry.

“As an island we need a viable aviation sector for trade, medicines, mail and work. Air travel is far more than just a leisure activity.

“Governments in Europe and globally have provided financial support for their aviation sectors because they recognise it is vital to an economy, and the UK government needs to do the same.”

As part of its campaign, Unite has also launched a "blueprint for the survival of the aviation industry” which urged the government to provide state-backed loans to airlines or take financial stakes, which will be fully repayable. 

It has also called for employment and employee terms and conditions to be protected, with any reduction in workforce restricted to 10% or less.

All financial support and loans should be provided on condition recipients have a clear programme of transition to more efficient and greener travel operations, Unite added.

Smaller airports and air traffic control, as well as specific public service obligation routes within the UK’s aviation network, should be publicly financed in order to retain much needed connectivity, the union also suggested.