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Flying secure but govts must step up to the plate - Iata

Geneva – The success of global aviation rests on safety, security, sustainability and global standards, Alexandre de Juniac, CEO of the International Air Transport Association (Iata), said on Thursday.

He emphasised that flying is safe, but not free from accidents.

“In the last week we have had two tragedies, one in Pakistan and the other in Colombia. Every accident makes us even more determined to make our safe industry even safer,” he said at Iata’s Global Media Day.

“In tandem with safety is the priority of security. Over the last year two airports have been attacked, an attempt to bomb a jet failed, terrorists laid claim to downing another, and popular tourist destinations have seen bloodshed.”

However, he emphasised that flying is secure.

“I fly with confidence and you should too. But there are risks and challenges – insider threats, landside exposure at airports, overflight of conflict zones and cyber security,” he said.

“Efficient airport checkpoints are important. And our Smart Security programme is making them more efficient and convenient.“

Holwever, he cautioned that this alone is not enough to stay a step ahead of those who want to cause harm.

“A recent UN Security Council resolution reminds governments that keeping aviation secure is integral to a state’s responsibility for national security. Governments can and must do more. That is the only way that terrorists can be kept away from airports and aircraft,” said De Juniac.

Another important aspect for the aviation industry, he emphasised, is that its activities must be sustainable. This is why he is pleased that the 39th Assembly of the International Civil Aviaton Organisation agreed in October this year to a carbon offset and reduction scheme for international aviation.

READ: Airlines hail historic carbon agreement

Aviation is, therefore, committed to carbon-neutral growth from 2020 and by 2050 it wants to cut net emissions to half that of 2005.

“We must also continue to improve technology, operations and infrastructure and we expect the same of governments – particularly with respect to eliminating inefficiencies in air traffic management and supporting the successful commercialisation of sustainable alternative fuels for aviation,” said De Juniac.

Lastly, although he emphasised that Iata is non-political, De Juniac expressed concern over what he calls “the current ‘protectionist’ rhetoric which is gaining popularity and geographic scope”.

“The job of Iata is to remind governments of the benefits aviation generates, the policies and infrastructure it requires to be successful and the importance of keeping borders open for trade and welcoming to people,” he said.

* Fin24 is the guest of Iata at its Global Media Day.

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