BAR UK, the trade association that represents the interests of full service scheduled airlines in the UK, has approached the BAA and Government for support for its members.

The outbreak of hostilities in Iraq has intensified the negative business environment in which many BAR UK members are working. Traffic has diminished, and not just to the areas affected by military operations but around the world. Passengers, understandably, are delaying travel plans at a time of international uncertainty.

BAR UK has asked BAA plc not to implement the price rises planned for April. Prices at London Heathrow are scheduled to increase by 9% next month.

In a similar move, the trade association has written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer asking that he suspend the collection of Air Passenger Duty until three months after the end of hostilities.

BAR UK members will do all that they can to minimise the negative effects of the current business upheaval. However, price increases by monopoly providers and tax imposition by governments are totally outside their control and hence the approaches made this week.

...ENDS

For further information contact:
Peter North,
Chief Executive,
BAR UK

Tel:	020 7393 1261
Fax:	020 7393 1206
Email:	peter.north@bar-uk.org