IATA launches repatriation scheme

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced a new protection agreement that will aim to repatriate as many customers as possible when an airline collapses.

Airlines will voluntary join the new agreement which will see them offer discounted fares to return any stranded passengers to home.

The agreement covers IATA member airlines travelling to and from the EU and for those that do not have insurance to cover a financial failure.

States responsible for licensing a collapsed airline will also be expected to play a role in repatriation.

“I am delighted to say that passengers left stranded in the rare and unfortunate event of an airline bankruptcy will be offered ‘rescue fares’ from airlines to ensure they can get home, “ said Tony Tyler, IATA’s director general and CEO. “This agreement on rescue fares shows that the airline industry is more determined than ever to ensure reliable and consistently excellent customer service. Airlines have formalised a unique cooperation agreement that puts passenger needs first.”

The association said the scheme will help overcome issues into how repatriation should be funded when an airline collapses. A compulsory system has been opposed to as the more financially stable airlines would have to support the riskier ones.

sourced:traveldailymedia.com