As Brexit transition period ends, what does that mean for airlines?

Britain’s status quo transition period with the European Union will end at 2300 GMT on Dec. 31. PM Boris Johnson said Thursday there was “a strong possibility” Britain and the EU would fail to safeguard free trade past the end of the year. If the two sides cannot agree a deal, there is a risk that flights between them could be grounded, but the EU announced contingency measures on Thursday aimed at preventing this. Under current arrangements, UK and EU airlines can fly any routes they wish within the bloc but after the end of the transition period, there will be no legal framework for flights to continue to operate between the two sides. Whether or not there is a deal, experts say neither side wants to see flights grounded or disruption to travel. The EU laid out “basic air connectivity” contingency plans on Thursday to ensure the provision of “certain air services” for six months, provided that the UK ensures the same. Confirmation from the British side is expected shortly, given that British transport minister Grant Shapps said in mid-October that the UK would look to reciprocate any basic connectivity measures put forward by the EU. “The UK and EU have a mutual interest in maintaining vital connectivity,” a British transport department spokeswoman said. “We are reviewing the detail of the EU’s regulations.” Story has more details.<br/>