Australia extends support to airlines for domestic flights

The Australian government said Sunday it will continue to underwrite domestic flights through September, extending its aid for airlines such as Qantas and Virgin Australia hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic. Deputy PM and Transport Minister Michael McCormack said the initial backing, due to expire on Monday, will be extended to cover shortfalls in operating flights on top domestic routes, even as airlines start to rebuild crushed capacity. Australia has barred its citizens from almost all outbound travel in order to stop the spread of the new coronavirus. “The Australian government is doing everything possible to ensure the aviation industry is sustained throughout the pandemic so that it can rebound on the other side,” McCormack said. <br/>