The International Civil Aviation Authority (ICAO) has urged governments, international organisations and financial institutions to consider the critical importance of civil aviation to the post-COVID-19 recovery.
ICAO President, Mr Salvatore Sciacchitano, made the plea in a statement issued in Lagos on Monday.
Sciacchitano explained that a recovery of the worldwide economy after the pandemic would be more easily achieved, if an efficient public policies and strategies in the aviation sector were implemented.
The council president said that the world was currently facing a global health crisis unlike any in the 75 years history of the United Nations.
He noted that the global response must consider the role of international air transport as a worldwide enabler in current times of crisis.
Sciacchitano said this would be done through vital air cargo services supporting the global supply chains, rescue of stranded passengers, timely emergency and humanitarian response capabilities.
“Maintaining the financial and functional operability of the global aviation system is a matter of urgency to establish a path toward a recovery from the economic hardships caused by COVID-19.
“Worldwide air transport connectivity stimulates economies through employment, trade and tourism, and supports the states in achieving the Agenda 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Therefore, the Council of ICAO is calling on States and financial institutions to examine the best means of supporting sectoral stakeholders.
“Others that need support are the airlines, airports, air navigation service providers, manufacturers, without prejudice to fair competition and by ensuring transparency,” he said.
Sciacchitano said in recalling the UN Secretary General, António Guterres’ remarks, he emphasised that after tackling the health emergency, they must focus on the social impact and the economic response and recovery.
The council president added that the creativity of the response must match the unique nature of the crisis.
He said the Leaders of the Group of Seven had acknowledged that COVID-19 posed major risks for the world economy and committed themselves to address the economic impact of the outbreak
