US airlines face push-back in Congress on US$50b bailout proposal

Some Democrats in Congress are pushing back on aspects of a proposal by major airlines seeking US$50b in grants and loans in the face of the massive travel slowdown as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. A4A said the industry needs $25b in grants, $25b in loans and significant tax relief, including the return of at least $4b in taxes paid this year, to survive. It warned that without action, airlines could run out of money by year-end - and even sooner if credit card companies withhold payments. Democrats are expected to back assistance to the sector. But aides say they will likely demand significant conditions as part of any bailout. US speaker Nancy Pelosi and some others insist that any bailout must prioritise workers, while others want airlines to adopt consumer-friendly or environmentally sound business practices. <br/>