Support for the country’s ailing aviation industry has been extended again, as the federal government plans to open international borders by the end of the year.

Another funding of $ 183.65 million to help maintain Australia’s international aviation capacity has been announced by Tourism Minister Barnaby Joyce.

“Australia’s aviation industry will play a critical role in our economic recovery from the COVID-19 crisis,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“As the engine of so many sectors of our economy, it is essential that the industry be prepared to scale up operations when international restrictions are relaxed.”

Most of the money will go to expanding the international aviation support program, which is due to expire at the end of October, when it was initially hoped that international travel could resume.

The program – now worth $ 319.65 million – aims to help airlines retain essential jobs critical to international travel so they are ready to go when borders reopen.

But $ 64 million of the new cash injection will go to a new rebate program to help airports offset the cost of security screening as passenger numbers remain low.

The program will start in October and run through the end of March, with payments available for major international airports in each state and territory capital, as well as Cairns, Gold Coast and Townsville.

Associated Australian Press