The new head of Iata has called on governments to recognise the value that the global aviation industry creates.
Former Air France-KLM chief Alexandre de Juniac succeeds Tony Tyler as director general and chief executive. Tyler has retired from the role after five years.
De Juniac said: “I will call on all my experience to ensure that Iata meets the needs of our members and plays a leading role in responding to the challenges that the industry faces.
“In particular, the accelerating pace of change in the world means that we must be able to move even more rapidly – as an industry and as an association.
“Iata’s mission is to represent, lead, and serve the airline industry with global standards. For me that means we must use change as a catalyst for innovation to please customers and contribute positively to the business of our members.”
He emphasised the need for industry stakeholders, especially governments, to recognise the value that aviation creates.
“The numbers are clear. Air transport supports an impressive 63 million jobs and some $2.7 trillion in economic activity. But that’s only a part of the value that aviation creates,” de Juniac said.
“Our industry is in the business of freedom. We help people to explore the planet, to do business globally, to bridge cultures with friendships and understanding, and to enjoy better lives through the prosperity that connectivity creates.
“Aviation changes our world for the better. And as the industry’s global advocate, my mission is to rally our partners to ensure that nothing impedes the business of freedom.”