Asean and EU conclude landmark aviation agreement to improve air connectivity

As nations begin cautiously to reopen borders closed by the Covid-19 pandemic, Asean and the EU have agreed to a landmark aviation agreement, the first region-to-region pact of its kind, that will allow for more flights between them. Under the Asean-EU Comprehensive Air Transport Agreement, airlines from the 37 member countries within Asean and the European Union will be able to fly any number of services between both regions. They will also be able to fly up to 14 weekly passenger services, and any number of cargo services via and beyond to any third country. This could lead to more non-stop flights between Singapore and major European hubs, creating more competition between airlines and thus cheaper fares on such routes, said an expert. Singapore's Ministry of Transport (MOT) on Friday said the agreement would improve air connectivity between Asean and Europe, and facilitate exchanges between people and businesses. "This will help support economic development in both regions as we work towards recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic," said MOT.<br/>