Airline shares lifted as US readies reopening 

US president Joe Biden signalled progress towards lifting a ban on travel from Europe, raising hopes for a reopening of the near €34bn North Atlantic air corridor 16 months after flights were grounded by the Covid crisis

US president Joe Biden said reopening travel from Europe to the US was 'in process'.

Airline stocks saw marginal gains on the back of US president Joe Biden hinting that America is close to reopening its skies to European visitors.

While initial gains were pared back, Aer Lingus owner IAG still closed up nearly 1.5%, while Lufthansa and Air France-KLM jumped nearly 2% and 3% respectively.