Ryanair, Aer Lingus and other aviation corporations have called on the government to end the travel ban and get the Irish aviation industry back in the air again.
The airlines set out a ‘balanced and evidence-based approach’ with the Aviation Restart Plan, from industry working group the National Civil Aviation Development Forum (NCADF).
NCADF also includes airport operators the DAA and the Shannon Group.
They are urging the end of the ban on non-essential travel by this summer and easing of quarantine rules.
It wants a resumption of the EU traffic light system, and a marketing plan to communicate the changes effectively and restore air travel confidence.
NCADF wants to prioritise a ‘full restoration of the common travel area between Ireland and the UK’ as well as talks with US officials to end the current non-essential travel ban on Irish residents entering the US.
Also, the NCADF does not believe vaccinations should be mandatory for international air travel.
The Aviation Restart Plan outlines an ‘effective exit strategy.’
"The need for a data-driven, risk-based Irish roadmap to reopen international travel is urgent. This will enable the restoration of connectivity and ensure that the economy is supported to deliver the recovery that will be vital for the country," said Aer Lingus Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, Donal Moriarty.
