The All Party Aviation Group says it has attracted a high level of interest to its inquiry into the competitiveness of the UK aviation industry.

The group has received 60 written submissions from a wide cross-section of interests.

The first of two oral evidence sessions saw Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer and Gatwick strategy and regulation director Kyran Hanks among five witnesses cross-examined by MPs. A second session is to be held on June 20.

The aviation group’s chairman Brian Donohoe MP said he was "pleasantly surprised" at the high level of interest in and positive reaction to the inquiry.

He said: "It confirms just how important maintaining and developing the international competitiveness of the air transport industry is both to the sector and, crucially, the wider economy.

“We have received 60 responses to the All Party Aviation Group inquiry's call for evidence, which is a very positive endorsement of the initiative.

“Last week we heard from witnesses from airlines, airports and associations at the inquiry's first oral evidence session.

“During that time myself, Paul Maynard and Mike Crockart, representing all major parties on the group, cross examined witnesses for two and a half hours in what proved to be an extremely informative evidence session in identifying the key priorities for the industry and the broader economy.

“We're now looking forward to hearing further expert testimony at the next evidence session on June 20."