26 May 2020: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and in an effort at safe and normal restart of air travel the IATA's Board of Directors has agreed upon a declaration of five principles of restating aviation. They are
1. Aviation will always put safety and security first.
2. Aviation will respond flexibly as the crisis and science evolve.
3. Aviation will be a key driver of the economic recovery.
4. Aviation will meet its environmental targets.
5. Aviation will operate to global standards which are harmonized and mutually recognized by governments.
"The safety of our passengers and crew is the number one concern. No single measure is going to achieve that. That's why we are taking a layered approach that is guided by science and which is aligned with EASA's recommendations. As the medical situation and science evolve, we will work closely with regulators to ensure that the measures in place adapt accordingly. And our five principles will guide us to a safe and sustainable restart for air travel and a vital boost for economic activity," said Rafael Schvartzman, IATA's Regional Vice President for Europe.
"In Europe, we have been in lockdown for many weeks. The tourism sector, representing millions of jobs across Europe, is particularly dependent on connectivity re-starting. Enforced isolation has left us yearning to reconnect with the world, to once again enjoy the freedom to explore, to share experiences with our loved ones, and to escape the pressures of everyday life. With these sensible guidelines in place, we can all look forward to the freedom that only flying can provide," he concluded.