Congress considers airline aid package

The White House and Congress are considering a federal aid package for the airline industry to help it recover from last week’s attacks.

The industry has asked for $24bn (£16.3bn). The House of Representatives floated a $15bn (£10.2bn) relief plan last Friday.

Although the White House and congressional leaders suggested a multibillion-dollar package was on the way, they weren’t offering a final dollar figure or timetable for debate.

The administration of US President George W. Bush could propose an aid package next week, Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta said.

The House may move forward this week, when it returns from a recess for the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashana.