A new agreement between the UK and the EU, similar to the existing “open skies” agreement, seems to be the most likely option. The initial agreement was signed on April 30, 2007 in Washington, D.C. The agreement entered into force on March 30, 2008. The second phase was signed in June 2010 and has been applied on an interim basis until all signatories are ratified. [2] The agreement, which is closely linked to the U.S. Model Open Skies Agreement, facilitates strong competition and is clearly consumer-friendly. The United States is an important destination for British businesses and tourists, while the UK welcomes many American visitors to its coasts. The draft EU mandate stipulates that the EU would be open to such an agreement, but “the elements contained in the Fifth Freedom of Air can be taken into account if… they are balanced with the corresponding commitments and in the interests of the Union.” The mention of commitments suggests that the EU would link the integration of certain aspects of the Fifth Freedom to the UK`s acceptance of a level playing field, in order to ensure the maintenance of current standards on the environment, state aid, labour law and competition. It also indicates that freedoms will be abandoned beyond one-fifth.

The deal means Brexit won`t disrupt transatlantic flight between nations. In November 2018, the UK reached an individual “Open Sky” agreement with the US, which will succeed the EU agreement after Brexit. [19] The agreement will allow for the continued continued flight of passengers by U.S. and British airlines from one country to another. U.S. all-cargo carriers also benefit from additional traffic rights on us-uk routes. Air traffic between the United States and the United Kingdom was covered by the US-European Union (EU) open skies regime, but the UK`s withdrawal from the EU necessitateed a new agreement. Transport Minister Chris Grayling today (28 November 2018) announced the completion of a new “open skies” regime with the US, which ensures that the UK will remain one of the world`s most important air hubs after Brexit for travellers and airlines. It is essential that Britain maintains full access to international aviation markets in order to develop its global trade relations. This agreement is an important positive development that we welcome. The BRITISH Transport Minister Grant Shapps signed the agreement on behalf of the United Kingdom.