The International Transport Association says that the ash cloud, caused by the Icelandic volcano, cost airlines 1.7 billion American Dollars.
British Airways lost 20 million Pounds a day, whereas Ryanair and easyJet only lost 5 million Pounds a day. There are two reasons for this difference. British Airways provided for more accommodiation and meals for stranded passengers and their tickets are of a higher value.
The ashcloud has had more impact on the airlines than 9/11, because back then, airspace was only closed for three days.
Airlines hope for state aid from national governments and the European Union.
In contrast with the airlines, trains and coach operators made more money the last few days.
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/travel/news/article7103681.ece
Ash cloud over Europe ‘worse than 9/11’ with airline costs of $1.7bn
My reaction:
With the recession in mind, I thought the closing of the airspace could mean a true financial disaster for Europe. Luckily money was made, but by different companies (by train operators, hotels etc.). The airlines could have troubles because of the past few days, but I think the amounts of money saved by not using their fuel could even things up a bit. I find it not easy to think of which party should help the airlines that do need help: national governments or the European Union. This is a European problem, but the airlines are situated in one of the countries and do not belong to the Union as a whole.
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This reaction is a bit late, but looking at this topic two months later I have to conclude that the organizations that were economically harmed did survive, because they still exist today. And why should those organizations get money if they are not almost bankrupted? I prefer the expression: “What doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger”, rather then begging for money.
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