AEA calls for extension of "use it or lose it" slot suspension extension

Association of European Airlines (AEA) announced (16-Oct-2009) it expects AEA carriers to handle 22 million fewer passengers in 2009 than 2008, with proportionately the greatest loss coming in the premium-fare segment, and post a combined operating loss of EUR2.9 billion, 50% greater than the previous highest-ever loss figure, in 2001. During the course of the year, some 35,000 jobs within AEA airlines will have been lost, while another 60,000 jobs which depend indirectly from airlines, will have been eliminated. As a result, the AEA renewed its call for regulators to pursue the implementation of legislation already in place which would lead to the moderation of air traffic control, airport and security charges. The AEA also called for the suspension of the 'use it or lose it' airport slot rule to be extended through Winter 2009-10. [more]

Association of European Airlines: "The dimensions of this downturn are unprecedented. In the past 35 years we have not seen such devastation of value. And we will not return to 'normal' again; the consumers are changing their expectations, and this will continue...We have been ripped off for years and the airports and air navigation service providers, still acting as uncontrolled monopolists in our competitive market, continue to push up their prices. During recent weeks we have seen major airports, national air traffic control providers and even the US health agency which inspects arriving flights proposing fee increases to compensate for lower traffic volumes," Dr Ivan Misetic, Chairman. Source: Association of European Airlines, 16-Oct-2009.