Airlines will fly nearly empty planes regularly as part of bailout deal

April 22, 2020

Airlines have asked for and received a $25 billion bailout from the federal government after the COVID-19 pandemic caused a 96% drop in passengers.

One of the main requirements for airlines to get their percentage of the take is that they must maintain passenger flights to all U.S. destinations served before March 1, unless the airline is granted an exemption.

Flying accounts for about 3% of all greenhouse gases emitted in the U.S., making it one of the most carbon-intensive actions a person can take. The bailout requirement means nearly empty airliners are continuing to emit greenhouse gases across the country.

While most of Europe has greatly reduced the number of planes in the air, the U.S. has dropped only about 60% of flights.

Airlines will fly nearly empty planes regularly as part of bailout deal

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