Uncertainty triggered by government U-turns and Covid policy changes have left the aviation sector little time to restart after two years of being largely grounded.
Iata director general Willie Walsh hit out against the backdrop of weeks of disruption at some UK airports.
The former British Airways boss said: “With the northern summer travel season now upon us, two things are clear: two years of border restrictions have not weakened the desire for the freedom to travel. Where it is permitted, demand rapidly is returning to pre-Covid levels.
“However, it is also evident that the failings in how governments managed the pandemic have continued into the recovery.
“With governments making U-turns and policy changes there was uncertainty until the last minute, leaving little time to restart an industry that was largely dormant for two years.
“It is no wonder that we are seeing operational delays in some locations. In those few locations where these problems are recurring, solutions need to be found so passengers can travel with confidence.
He was speaking as the Iata reported that air travel resumed a strong recovery trend in April driven mainly by international demand, despite the war in Ukraine and travel restrictions in China.
Total demand in the month was up 78.7% year-on-year and slightly ahead of a 76% increase in March.
But April domestic air travel was down 1%, a reversal from the 10.6% demand rise in March. The downturn was driven entirely by continuing strict travel restrictions in China, where domestic traffic was down 80.8% year-on-year.
Several route areas were above pre-pandemic levels, including Europe–Central America, Middle East–North America and North America–central America.
Walsh said: “With the lifting of many border restrictions, we are seeing the long-expected surge in bookings as people seek to make up for two years of lost travel opportunities.
“April data is cause for optimism in almost all markets, except China, which continues to severely restrict travel.
“The experience of the rest of the world is demonstrating that increased travel is manageable with high levels of population immunity and the normal systems for disease surveillance. We hope that China can recognise this success soon and take its own steps towards normality.”
Iata holds its 78th annual general meeting in Doha in less than two weeks’ time – the first taking place as a wholly in-person event for the first time since 2019.
“It should send a strong signal that it is time for governments to lift any remaining restrictions and requirements and prepare for an enthusiastic response by consumers who are voting with their feet for a full restoration of their right to travel,” said Walsh.