U.S. and U.K. based transatlantic airlines are calling for a summit geared toward reopening travel between the two nations.

The meeting was proposed Tuesday in a letter from the CEOs of American, Delta, United, JetBlue, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic to U.S. DOT secretary Pete Buttigieg and U.K. secretary of state for transport Grant Shapps. Nick Calio, CEO of the trade group Airlines for America, was also a signatory.

In the letter, the executives pointed out the strong vaccination rates enjoyed in the U.S. and U.K, arguing that both countries are on pace to have provided at least one vaccination dose to any adults who wants one by the end of July.

"This success can serve as the foundation for the U.K. and U.S. to lead the world by demonstrating how to safely re-open this crucial air corridor," the letter reads.

The CEOs also noted that strong testing capabilities and the development of digital health passes provide airlines with tools to ensure safe transatlantic travel.
They requested that Buttigieg and Shapps meet with them either virtually or in person prior to the June 11 to June 13 G7 Summit in England.

Share this article: