IATA WARNS OF THREAT TO AIRLINES

THE International Air Transport Association (IATA) has thanked governments around the world for providing airlines with financial support but urged others to “follow suit before more damage is done” to the industry.

“Airlines are fighting for survival in every corner of the world,” says Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’S Director General and CEO.

“Travel restrictions and evaporating demand mean that, aside from cargo, there is almost no passenger business. For airlines, it’s apocalypse now.

“There is a small and shrinking window for governments to provide a lifeline of financial support to prevent a liquidity crisis from shuttering the industry.”

De Juniac said IATA is “100% behind governments in supporting measures to slow the spread of COVID-19” but called for help for airlines. “Without urgent relief, many airlines will not be around to lead the recovery stage.”