US airlines rescue
US airlines could get additional payroll support under new $900bn rescue package. Credit: Josue Isai Ramos Figueroa via Unsplash.

Airlines in the US would receive new additional payroll assistance under a nearly $900bn rescue package for Covid-19 relief.

As per media reports, US airlines would be granted $15bn in extra federal aid from the package.

It is expected to safeguard more than 32,000 jobs, which cannot be furloughed through 31 March 2021.

In addition to airlines, media reports said that the new package includes funding for airline contractors, airports and concessionaires and others.

The news about the stimulus package was announced by US Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

He said four leaders in the Senate and the House have finalised an agreement in consultation with the committees.

McConnell said: “There will be another major rescue package for the American people. As our citizens continue battling the coronavirus this holiday season, they will not be fighting alone.

“We’ve agreed to a package of nearly $900bn. It is packed with targeted policies to help struggling Americans who have already waited too long.

“For workers at the hardest-hit small businesses, there will be a targeted second draw of the Paycheck Protection Program.

“We have not worked so hard to save as many jobs as possible, all these months, only to fumble the ball with vaccinations already underway.”

In March this year, US airlines received $25bn under the CARES Act that helps them maintain minimum service levels and keep workers on payroll through 30 September.

Following the expiry of the bailout, several airlines were forced to furlough their employees in October.