Iata has warned that 25 million jobs could be at risk due to plummeting demand during the coronavirus crisis.
The association said new analysis showed 65.5 million people globally are dependent on the industry, including in sectors such as travel and tourism. If severe restrictions were to last for three months, it said 25 million jobs in aviation and related sectors would be in danger.
The figures were released as Iata reiterated calls for governments to intervene with immediate financial support to ensure airlines could help lead the recovery when the pandemic is contained.
Alexandre de Juniac, Iata Director General, said: “There are no words to adequately describe the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the airline industry. And the economic pain will be shared by 25 million people who work in jobs dependent upon airlines.
“Airlines must be viable businesses so that they can lead the recovery when the pandemic is contained. A lifeline to the airlines now is critical.”
Iata has predicted full-year passenger revenues will fall be $252 billion in 2020 compared to 2019, with airlines using up $61 billion in cash during the critical second quarter.