On Thursday (26 May), the central authority outlined the Flightpath to the Future scheme, designed to help the aviation sector rebuild consumer confidence, build back sustainably from the pandemic, support jobs across the country and build a diverse workforce.

Launched by aviation minister Robert Courts during a visit to Heathrow, the plan will be supported by a new Aviation Council made up of airlines, airports and wider representatives from the aviation sector, as well as ministers and officials from both the UK government and devolved administrations.

The Board of Airline Representatives in the UK (BAR UK) welcomed the publication of the plan, with Dale Keller, chief executive of the group, describing it as "an unmissable opportunity" to "finally" put in place the policies and implementation schedule that can ensure the future of aviation as a "key economic and social asset" for the UK.

"Past strategies for aviation have been too limited in ambition and scope so embarking on a more progressive policy around planning, implementation and delivery for long-term success will be vital to supporting recovery and sustainable development of the sector," Keller added.

"Airlines look forward to bringing their learnings and expertise to the new Aviation Council as it develops the balanced and internationally competitive polices with effective oversight needed to support innovation and continuous improvement across the aviation sector for the benefit of the whole country."

Meanwhile, Tim Alderslade, chief executive of Airlines UK, said "there can be no Global Britain" without the air connectivity UK airlines deliver.

"We welcome the publication of this strategy and look forward to working with ministers to ensure UK aviation and its based carriers receive the support they need to recover and prosper," he added.

"This means recognising the critical role of UK-registered airlines in connecting us to the world, and that the domestic and international routes they provide are strategic assets for the UK, delivering tens of thousands of jobs across the country, export opportunities and supporting inward investment and tourism." 

Luke Petherbridge, director of public affairs for ABTA, also welcomed the new scheme. "We look forward to engaging to ensure the views of the wider travel industry are heard and understood," he added.
 
"Constructive and regular engagement between industry and government will be required to tackle these challenges successfully, and we particularly welcome the formation of the Aviation Council which will help to facilitate an ongoing dialogue."

Elsewhere, chief executive of Airport Operators Association (AOA) Karen Dee urged the government to provide funding along with the plan to ensure the goals are met.

"It is vital that the government not only provide policy certainty to achieve a UK-wide recovery but also back their ambitions with funding," she said.

"UK airports come out of the pandemic in a worse financial position than many of their international competitors, who received significantly more generous funds from their governments to weather the pandemic.
 
"Airports look forward to working with government through the new Aviation Council to ensure effective delivery of our shared ambitions, from supporting levelling-up to enabling people to take well-earned breaks abroad and reconnect with family and friends in other countries."