TIACA calls for urgent support of air cargo amidst COVID-19 crisis

During the meeting of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) ‘COVID-19 Technical Group’ on 30 March 2020, The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) restated the urgent need to provide immediate support to the air cargo sector in order to facilitate the global efforts of the industry in transporting vital good and supplies.

Speaking to experts from the World Health Organization (WHO), International Air Transport Association (IATA), Airports Council International (ACI), Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO), International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA), Global Express Association (GEA) and World Customs Organization (WCO), TIACA emphasised the vital nature of air cargo, both in the fight against COVID-19 and for the survival of people and global economies.

TIACA’s General Secretary, Vladimir Zubkov, said: “Everyone, and governments in particular, should be aware of the fact that in this period of unprecedented crisis, air cargo is more vital than ever. Every effort should be made to increase the efficiency of air cargo operations, in both financial and operational terms.”

In light of this, and to ensure the continued existence of cargo activities, TIACA is calling for supportive measures to be implemented immediately, including:

• Financial support from governments for air cargo stakeholders in the form of subsidies, bank guarantees, and tax and contribution deferrals

• For aviation authorities to simplify processes surrounding charter traffic rights (pharmaceutical products, masks, medicines) and temporarily relax regulations (air freedom restrictions, airport switching, slot amendments)

• Applying air traffic control charges in strict compliance with ICAO recommendations

• Recognise the essential nature of handling and maintenance agents

• Giving priority to handling of “Charter pharma flights against COVID-19” (apron and warehouse) across all airports worldwide

• Drawing attention of aircraft leasing companies to the importance of simplifying leasing contract reviews, including eliminating sanctions and allowing repayment holidays.

Steven Polmans, TIACA Chairman, said: “TIACA was able to put all of these important and concrete requests to the ICAO technical group thanks to feedback from TIACA members and the association’s unfailing commitment to fight on behalf of and alongside the air cargo industry.”