IATA and ITF call for government support to protect aviation jobs

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) have called for support from governments to enable the aviation industry to protect jobs and ensure that air services can be maintained during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The economic situation facing the aviation industry as a result of the health crisis is severe. Air passenger demand has fallen by 80 per cent. Airlines are facing a liquidity crisis which threatens the viability of 25 million jobs that are directly and indirectly dependent upon aviation, including jobs in the tourism and hospitality sectors.

In a joint statement, IATA and ITF called for governments to: 

• Ensure that the protection of health workers caring for those with COVID-19 is prioritised
• Coordinate carefully between each other and with the industry to ensure harmonised and effective action to protect the safety of passengers and crew
• Provide immediate financial and regulatory support for airlines, in order to maintain the sustainability of terms and conditions for air transport workers
• Assist the industry to restart quickly by adapting regulations and lifting travel restrictions in a predictable and efficient manner. 

IATA and ITF also highlighted the aviation industry’s contribution to helping alleviate the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis by keeping supply chains open and repatriating citizens. Aviation professionals are also volunteering on the front line to assist medical services in the fight against the virus. 

Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO, said: “Airlines are facing the most critical period in the history of commercial aviation. Some governments have stepped in to help, and we thank them. But much, much more is needed. Direct financial support is essential to maintain jobs and ensure airlines can remain viable businesses. When the world is ready to start travelling again, the global economy will need aviation at its best to help restore connectivity, tourism and global supply chains. That will require a harmonised approach, with the industry, workers and governments working together.”

ITF’s General Secretary, Stephen Cotton, said: “IATA and ITF have a shared goal to ensure a sustainable future for the aviation industry. In order to achieve this, we need urgent action now. It is crucial that governments understand the importance of the aviation industry in rebuilding the global economy and support the industry. Bold decisions are required to invest in the future of airlines and protect the jobs and livelihoods of the transport workers who will lead the economic recovery when COVID-19 has been contained. Workers and the industry have joined forces, we invite more governments to join us in a coordinated approach to keep the industry and its essential supply chains moving.”