Background on Key Players and Relevance
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is a global trade body representing approximately 350 airlines, which account for around 80% of total international air traffic. With its extensive reach and influence, IATA plays a crucial role in shaping the air transport industry’s policies and practices.
IATA’s Position on the Air Travel Dispute
In a recent statement, IATA has called for direct dialogue between the governments of Mexico and the United States to address ongoing issues related to their bilateral air services agreement.
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) issued a statement on Saturday, alleging abuse of the agreement and anti-competitive practices. IATA’s vice president for the Americas, Peter Cerdá, emphasized the importance of resolving these problems through constructive and balanced solutions for all parties involved.
The Significance of the Mexico-US Air Market
Cerdá highlighted that the Mexico-US air market is one of the largest between neighboring countries and a vital driver for their respective economies. The aviation sector’s contribution to Mexico’s GDP is substantial, totaling $88.3 billion (4.8%) and supporting 1.8 million jobs.
Within this sector, the aviation industry directly employs 202,600 people in Mexico, generating $33.3 billion in economic production.
IATA’s Advocacy for Global Airport Hourly Slot Guidelines
IATA has consistently maintained contact with Mexican authorities for years, advocating for the adoption of the globally accepted Worldwide Airport Hourly Slot Guidelines (WASG). These guidelines aim to address capacity limitations at various Mexican airports, particularly the Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México (AICM).
However, IATA has not specified the extent of its relationship with local authorities or whether WASG has been implemented appropriately.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is IATA? The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is a global trade body representing around 350 airlines, accounting for approximately 80% of international air traffic.
- What is the dispute between Mexico and the US about? The disagreement revolves around allegations of abuse of the bilateral air services agreement and anti-competitive practices by the US DOT.
- Why is dialogue crucial? Direct dialogue between Mexico and the US governments can lead to balanced and constructive solutions for all parties involved in the air travel dispute.
- What are Worldwide Airport Hourly Slot Guidelines (WASG)? WASG are globally accepted guidelines aimed at addressing capacity limitations at airports, such as the Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México (AICM).
- What is the significance of the Mexico-US air market? The Mexico-US air market is one of the largest between neighboring countries, contributing significantly to both nations’ economies and supporting 1.8 million jobs.
