Airlines have reduced their traffic significantly and now the airline BRA is choosing to pause completely. Aviation expert Jan Ohlsson believes that many companies will have a hard time coming back after the corona crisis. And he is critical of the government's support package.
”"The reactions to the government's so-called support package are very negative. What is being offered is the elbow. Airlines like BRA are not interested in loans at very high interest rates. SAS is not particularly interested in such support either. It is a blow in the air," says aviation expert Jan Ohlsson, and adds:
”"No one sees any sensible support in this and it is a matter of life and death for the companies and the employees."”
Jan Ohlsson believes that the aviation industry would be better off if the aviation tax, employer contributions and airport fees were removed to reduce the hard hit caused by the coronavirus.
”"Almost all airlines in Europe, except Belarus, are pausing their traffic. But BRA is pausing everything and doing so over a very long period, until May 31. It is surprising that they are stopping for so long. Several other companies have chosen to pause traffic until the middle or end of April," says Jan Ohlsson.
He is unsure whether all the companies that have now taken their aircraft out of service will return.
”"The question is whether they can come back even if they take a break. Once they come back, they have to get people to start flying again and they have to fly for a good while before they can pick up speed again," says Jan Ohlsson.
He refers to what Germany's dominant airline Lufthansa has said.
”"They have said they will come back, but that they will be a significantly smaller company. This also applies to SAS, BRA and Norwegian. This is a real blow."”
If the crisis leads to the disappearance of several airlines, it could disrupt competition.
”"If only SAS remains, flying could become a class issue, as it could become very expensive. It also hits regions that are dependent on flying and those who need to fly to do business. The airline industry is a barometer for what economic development we will get going forward. When aviation is doing poorly, it will spread to other industries."”
Source: TT
