If the UK leaves the EU without an agreement, the resulting freeze on airline capacity would result in the loss of 93,000 flights and 20 million passengers, says Airports Council International (ACI) Europe. As a result, the association estimates a loss of $2.1bn in GDP and 43,000 jobs.
The ACI’s concern was raised at its annual New Year reception at the European Parliament, held on January 22 this year.
“On the EU side, larger airports and big cities might withstand the shock. But medium-sized and smaller airports and their regional communities will be much more affected – as their exposure to the UK can be very significant,” said ACI president and ceo of Munich airport, Dr Michael Kerkloh.