Aviation ‘contributing £50bn to UK economy’
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The UK’s aviation sector is estimated to generate more than GBP50 billion to the UK economy each year with many also playing a key role in local communities, a new report has said.
The Airport Operator Association’s (AOA) latest report said the sector provides more than one million jobs and pays more than GBP8 billion a year in taxes.
While each airport offers job opportunities to those living nearby, the report also outlines how airports are getting involved with communities through charity projects and local suppliers.
Last month the association welcomed news from the Airports Commission that the role of regional airports would be considered.
Darren Caplan, AOA’s chief executive said: “Airports are part of a thriving UK success story. With passenger numbers heading in the right direction following the recent economic downturn, it’s extremely welcome that the Government has started to recognise the contribution our members can make to the recovery.”
It also put forward a list of suggestions to the party that wins next year’s general election which AOA would ‘like to see’ in party manifestos.
These include supporting UK airports’ growth; reviewing and cutting Air Passenger Duty; introducing incentives for using sustainable fuel; improving rail and road access to airports; aligning security and setting clear land-use policies so less people live or work near airports.
The Airport Commission’s full report will be released in summer 2015.
Click here to see the AOA report.
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