IATA urges governments to unblock airline funds amid mounting financial pressures

IATA has called on governments to eliminate barriers preventing airlines from repatriating revenues from ticket sales and other activities. The organization emphasizes the importance of adhering to international agreements and treaty obligations.

"Ensuring the timely repatriation of revenues is vital for airlines to cover dollar-denominated expenses and maintain their operations. Delays and denials violate bilateral agreements and increase exchange rate risks. Reliable access to revenues is critical for any business—particularly airlines which operate on very thin margins. Economies and jobs rely on international connectivity. Governments must realize that it is a challenge for airlines to maintain connectivity when revenue repatriation is denied or delayed,” stated Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Ten countries are responsible for 80% of blocked funds, totaling $1.03 billion. Mozambique leads with $205 million in withheld funds, followed by the XAF Zone at $191 million, Algeria at $178 million, Lebanon at $142 million, Bangladesh at $92 million, Angola at $84 million, Pakistan at $83 million, Eritrea at $76 million, Zimbabwe at $68 million, and Ethiopia at $44 million.