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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has emphasized the importance of safeguarding civil aviation during conflicts. The statement underscores that flights must remain secure and critical infrastructure should not be targeted amidst hostilities.
"Civil aviation does not take sides in political conflicts," the statement reads, highlighting its role as an industry reliant on global standards. It serves civilian populations and should be protected by all parties involved in a conflict, according to IATA's firm belief. This protection is also seen as an "unquestionable obligation of governments under international law."
The statement references several international legal frameworks, such as Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which supports freedom of movement, and Article 48 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, which prohibits targeting civilian objects during conflicts. Furthermore, it mentions customary international law norms that mandate allowing humanitarian relief passage and ensuring freedom for authorized personnel.
