IATA’s dismal forecast

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called for an end to the blanket approach to quarantine restrictions after releasing new dismal forecasts for the industry. 

In its new forecasts, IATA said traffic in the UK in August is expected to fall 65%, or 165m passengers. The figure is even worse than those forecast in June and do not take into account the latest restrictions imposed by the British Government.

"It is desperately worrying to see a further decline in prospects for air travel this year, and the knock-on impact for employment and prosperity," IATA Regional Vice President for Europe Rafael Schvartzman said.

"It shows once again the terrible effect that is being felt by families across Europe as border restrictions and quarantine continue. It is vital that governments and industry work together to create a harmonized plan for reopening borders."

Although the European market has seen an increase in activity, flights are still more than 50% below the same period in 2019.

"The near-term outlook for recovery in Europe remains highly uncertain with respect to the second wave of the pandemic and the broader global economic impact it could have," he said. "Passenger demand in Europe is expected to recover gradually and will not reach 2019 levels until 2024."

He also reiterated calls for the European Commission to extend the slot waiver through the winter.

Non-IATA airline Wizz Air has vehemently opposed any extension to the waiver, arguing it will allow airlines to hold onto slots 'they have no intention of using'.

www.iata.org

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