Air travel is a crucial enabler of economic activity in Europe, directly affecting the wider tourism industry, businesses across most sectors of the economy, and job creation. Even a small increase in air travel can bring substantial socio-economic benefits, especially in areas of Europe affected by high youth unemployment. The connectivity provided by the European transport network provides a crucial conduit for trade, tourism and economic growth.

Air traffic control is a crucial element of the air transport system. In recent years, frequent disruption to air traffic control services resulting from national industrial disputes involving air traffic controllers has spoiled the travel plans of millions of consumers, bringing about inefficiency, unnecessary CO2 emissions (through re-routings and diversions) and unnecessary costs for both airlines and their passengers. Continuity of service, an underlying objective of the Single European Sky, needs to apply to the provision of air traffic services.

A4E has developed 9 principles to promote and protect freedom of movement in the EU.

Read our Free Movement Call for Action, which was signed by A4E CEOs and EU politicians in 2016.