In separate discussions both parties sought to allay fears of a halt to flights post-Brexit. “It is a big leap to believe the Spanish government will not want the UK to fly there in summer 2019,” Chris Grayling pointed out to delegates at the Airport Operator’s Association. “It is inconceivable that the planes will stop flying.”

His confidence was similarly espoused by IAG chief executive Willie Walsh, who told the Transport Committee on Monday: “I’m pretty confident that there will be an arrangement put in place.” They are words that will be heartening for the sector to hear. The problem is that so far, words are all they are – the sector has yet to see any suggestion of a firm agreement with the EU regarding the UK’s membership of the European Common Aviation Area.

Grayling has at least acknowledged that airlines and operators plan their schedules a year in advance. But given the slow pace the government has been working on with other pieces of legislation (see PTD and its ongoing delays), it’s difficult to share the transport secretary’s optimism that it is “inconceivable” summer 2019 travel plans won’t be disrupted.

Shadow transport secretary Andy McDonald was, of course, critical of the government. “We are not being informed. We are just being given some bland assurances that all will be well.” He would be expected to say little else, but it’s hard not to think that McDonald has a point.

According to Grayling, negotiations have apparently taken place behind the scenes between ministers and other countries – although it seems Ryanair’s Michael O’Leary wasn’t privy to them.

“We worry that the UK government continues to underestimate the likelihood of flight disruption to/from the UK,” he insisted this week.

The government might be optimistic but it seems aviation plans post-Brexit remain up in the air – let’s hope UK flights to Europe stay that way too.