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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has appointed Thomas Reynaert to lead its global advocacy efforts. Reynaert will be based in Brussels, focusing initially on European Union matters, but his responsibilities will extend to overseeing IATA’s advocacy teams worldwide, including those in Washington and at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
“It is critical that governments understand the value aviation creates and the challenges that airlines face as they connect people and economies. Thomas brings knowledge and experience that will help IATA increase the effectiveness of our work with governments and regulators. Although Thomas will be based in Brussels with an immediate focus on EU matters, he will be responsible for leading IATA’s team of advocates globally, including in Washington and at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Together the IATA advocacy team’s goal is to make it easier for airlines to sustainably generate the economic and social benefits that governments, businesses and people depend on,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
Reynaert commented on his new role by highlighting several issues facing global airlines. “Global airlines face many challenges. Safely transporting five billion people and 3.2% of GDP each year is a modern miracle. While doing this critical work, airlines face the burden of onerous taxation, the imperative of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and the fragmentation of global standards with novel and potentially value-destroying approaches to everything from slots to passenger rights. I’ll be working with governments worldwide for a more productive regulatory environment in which airlines can efficiently compete and grow as they deliver the global connectivity that makes our world a better place,” said Reynaert.
