The UK Government has launched a 10-point strategy to deliver an innovative and sustainable aviation sector as it recovers from the pandemic.

The “Flightpath to the Future” initiative aims to rebuild consumer confidence, build back sustainably from the pandemic, support jobs and build a skilled and diverse workforce.

The 10-point 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.

Aviation Passenger Charter

It will include a new Aviation Passenger Charter which will ensure consumers know their rights when flying. The charter will be developed in partnership with industry and consumer groups to help rebuild consumer confidence in air travel.

Aviation Minister Robert Courts said: “The pandemic posed an existential threat to the aviation sector. Now recovery has started, we have a chance to build back better than ever before.

“Through this new strategy, I’m setting out ten priorities to ensure we build an industry that’s not only fit for the future, but one that’s world-leading.

“By working closely with the sector to focus on sustainable growth, powered by the latest innovations, we can ensure aviation creates jobs and opportunities across all four nations of the UK.”

Drones, flying taxis and electric planes

The Government said it will work with the aviation sector to develop the right skills and workforce to accommodate new technologies, from drones to flying taxis and electric planes.

Airport Operators Association Chief Executive, Karen Dee, said: “Airports provide the vital aviation links businesses across the UK need to trade within the UK and abroad. Post-pandemic, it is vital government and airports work together to rebuild and grow those links to support jobs and create new economic opportunities across all regions of the UK.

“Airports look forward to working through the new Aviation Council with government ensure effective delivery of our shared ambitions to support levelling-up while also enabling people to take well-earned breaks abroad and reconnect with family and friends in other countries.”

Ministers will also later this year publish the Jet Zero Strategy and set out their vision for how the aviation sector can reach net zero by 2050.

10-point plan

The 10-point plan is as follows:

  1. Recover and sustainably grow the sector
  2. Enhance the UK’s global aviation impact and leadership
  3. Support growth in airport capacity where it is justified, ensuring that capacity is used in a way that delivers for the UK
  4. Put the sector on course to achieve Jet Zero
  5. Capture the potential of new technology and its uses
  6. Unlock local benefits and level up
  7. Unleash the potential of the next generation of aviation professionals
  8. Make the UK the best place in the world for General Aviation
  9. Improve the consumer experience
  10. Retain our world-leading record on security and safety

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