Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to ensure the continued resilience of UK airports for both (1) passengers, and (2) freight operators.

We have been extensively engaging with industry at both ministerial and official level since the beginning of the year. During these meetings we have been clear that the volume delays and late notice cancellations are unacceptable, and airlines must have realistic schedules they can deliver.

On 30 June, the Secretary of State announced 22 measures the Government is taking to support the aviation industry, including: to help recruit and train staff; ensure the delivery of a realistic summer schedule through a slots amnesty; minimise disruption; and support passengers when delays and cancellations are unavoidable. We are now clear that industry needs to manage their operations effectively.

The Aviation Minister is also chairing a Strategic Risk Group which meets weekly to bring together senior executives from across the sector to highlight issues, assess mitigations, and encourage collaborative working.