The Australian government is giving the ailing airlines a 715 million Australian dollar (US$430 million) lifeline to help the sector through the new coronavirus pandemic. Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack said today that a range of government charges will be refunded and waived to help airlines under pressure as domestic and global travel plummet. The government will forgo fuel tax, air service charges and regional security fees. The move is expected to create an initial benefit of AU$159 million, with the government refunding charges paid since February 1.-AP

Source: The Standard March 17, 2020 21:33 UTC