UK and Australia Sign Aviation Agreement

Australia has signed a landmark aviation agreement with the UK to open its skies to removing current aviation restrictions between the two countries.  The effect is expected to be immediate.

What does "Open Skies" really mean?  In this case it means airlines from Australia and the UK can now freely determine the number of services operated between the two countries. There will also be no limit to code-sharing agreements.

The decision to do this is in line with the Australian government's policy of sseeking aviation arrangements that provide capacity ahead of demand," according to Australian Transport Minister Warren Truss.  Australia, therefore, expects the strong worldwide commercial aviation growth to continue. (great opportunity for new pilots, right?)