Coronavirus in Moray: EasyJet grounds all its planes
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EasyJet has grounded its entire fleet in the wake of the coranvirus pandemic.
The firm, which operates flights out both Aberdeen and Inverness, has reached an agreement with the Unite union on furlough arrangements for cabin crews.
The deal will come into effect on Wednesday and cover a two-month period, with staff being paid 80 per cent of their salary through the government's job retention scheme.
Johan Lundgren, EasyJet's chief executive, said: "I am extremely proud of the way in which people across EasyJet have given their absolute best at such a challenging time, including so many crew who have volunteered to operate rescue flights to bring our customers home.
"We are working tirelessly to ensure that EasyJet continues to be well positioned to overcome the challenges of coronavirus."
EasyJet operated more than 650 flights to get people home who were stranded abroad because of the Covid-19 virus.
Chancellor Rishi Sunak has said he will not create a specific support package for the aviation industry, but added that the government is prepared to enter into negotiations with individual firms once they have exhausted other options.
Jonathan Hinkles, Loganair's chief executive, stated the pandemic has had "an enormous effect on all UK airlines".
He said: "The government has made it clear that it is open to requests for support from individual airlines and, whilst Loganair has not yet taken up this invite, we fully expect to join other UK airlines in doing so in the coming days."
The president of the Scottish Passenger Agents Association, which represents travel agents, stated the importance of Loganair's contribution to the Scottish and UK economy cannot be underestimated.
Joanne Dooey said: "Loganair operates lifeline services for the people of Scotland, especially those in the remotest parts of the country.
"It should not be forgotten that, in addition to flying passengers, Loganair also transports essential medicines, mail and newspapers which would not otherwise reach those who need them.
"Loganair’s routes also provide the framework for connectivity from these areas to the rest of the world.
"As a provider of these essential services, The SPAA urges the government to consider any application which Loganair may make for emergency support during these unprecedented times."
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