US regional cargo carriers call for covid-19 payroll scheme extension

The Regional Air Cargo Carriers Association (RACCA) is one of a number of aviation companies calling on the US government to extend the payroll support programme (PSP) of Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

RACCA said that congress is now deliberating next steps in packages designed to provide relief from the impacts of Covid-19 and urged members to contact their elected representatives in Washington.

“The expiration of PSP is fast approaching on September 30 and industry is urging legislators to extend funding so there is no lay off of tens of thousands of airline employees,” the group said.

“The extension is necessary because the expected economic recovery has not materialized amidst a rise in Covid cases across the nation.”

The Regional Airline Association (RAA) issued a call to action not only to extend the program but to address disparities in the treatment of regional airlines under the CARES Act in which “treasury imposed conditions on collateral, putting regional airlines at risk”.

It is also requesting additional support for small communities receiving service under Essential Air Service as well as a temporary waiver against new communities qualifying for EAS.