Air transport

Air transport has been one of the sectors most affected by the COVID-19 crisis, especially in terms of passenger transport. Airlines and airports represent the first line of those affected, followed by all services and businesses linked to tourist activity, among others. In addition to the direct impact of the reduction in the number of flights, there is the loss of passenger confidence, which does not augur well for a rapid recovery of the sector. All of this is forcing airport managers and operators to reflect on the adoption of new measures to achieve user safety and comfort.

But what far-reaching measures would facilitate the recovery of air transport? Would the opening up of markets and the liberalisation of bilateral air transport agreements be a measure to be taken into account for possible recovery?  In this respect, the Mediterranean region has several fronts open to it. On the one hand, there are the possible Euro-Mediterranean air services agreements. On the other, the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). These processes must be based on the harmonisation of air transport regulations, in order to achieve efficient implementation.