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IATA stresses importance of cargo
March 27th 2020
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) said urgent government action is required to remove key obstacles to ensure important cargo operations remain open, efficient and effective in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic. Read More »
Available cargo capacity has been cut around the world as airlines grounded their passenger fleets due to travel restrictions and border closures imposed by national governments.
IATA figures, published on March 25, said the global passenger fleet normally transported about half of total cargo shipments.
To fill the gap, airlines have re-introduced freighter services and deployed passenger aircraft for cargo flights.
However, IATA said the efforts had been hampered by red tape.
“Air cargo is a vital partner in the global fight against COVID-19," IATA director general and CEO, Alexandre de Juniac, said in a statement.
"But we are still seeing examples of cargo flights filled with life-saving medical supplies and equipment grounded due to cumbersome and bureaucratic processes to secure slots and operating permits. These delays are endangering lives.
"All governments need to step up to keep global supply chains open.”
IATA called on national governments to introduce fast track procedures for oversight and landing permits for cargo operations in key manufacturing hubs and exempt flight crews who do not interact with the public from 14-day quarantine requirements and to support temporary traffic rights if required.
It recommended removing economic impediments such as over flight charges, parking fees and slot restrictions and easing of curfews for cargo flights to offer operators more flexibility.
“Air cargo is on the front line, not only fighting COVID-19, but ensuing that global supply chains are maintained for the most time-sensitive materials including food and other products purchased online in support of quarantine and social distancing policies implemented by states," IATA global head of cargo, Glyn Hughes, said in a statement.
"But we can only continue to do this if we work together with the support of governments. Keeping supply lines open also supports jobs in local economies, for example producers of perishables in Africa and Latin America. We are stronger together."
