In his media conference in advance ofthe ICAO sumet this week, IATA Director General Willie Walsh emphasised the critical need for stronger support for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and the preservation of the CORSIA carbon offsetting scheme
He said both are essential for achieving the industry’s net-zero 2050 goal. He also raised concerns about the potential for source-based corporate taxation, which could create significant administrative burdens, and highlighted the importance of protecting aviation’s critical radio frequencies from 5G interference.
Walsh also urged for increased global alignment on consumer protection regulations and supported raising the pilot age limit to 67 with enhanced medical oversight. According to Mr Walsh IATA
- Stresses the critical importance of growing SAF production and strengthening CORSIA to meet the 2050 net-zero target. He expressed concern that SAF production is not keeping pace with the growing demand.
- Opposes the proposal to implement source-based corporate taxation for airlines, as it would create an excessive administrative burden and could lead to double taxation.
- Calls for the protection of aviation’s safety-critical radio frequencies, particularly the 4.2-4.4GHz band for radio altimeters, from interference by 5G telecommunications services.
- Seeks global alignment on consumer protection regulations, which should be globally harmonized, proportional, and account for mass disruption events.
- Supports raising the pilot age limit to 67 for multi-pilot international flights, provided there is enhanced medical oversight to ensure safety.
- Emphasises the critical role of global standards for the aviation industry and expressed optimism that the ICAO Assembly will result in positive outcomes.
IATA has submitted 14 working papers to the 42nd ICAO Assembly in Montreal, covering a wide range of key topics for consideration.
The organisation believes that global standards and alignment are essential for the future success of global aviation.
