The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is calling on European Union leaders to adopt the controversial “vaccination passports” to restart passenger air travel, according to a document obtained by Euractiv.
The IATA letter calls for the implementation of “evidence-based border restrictions” across Europe and urges EU member states to agree on the crucial role of digital solutions such as the IATA Travel Pass.
The letter is signed by Rafael Schvartzman, IATA’s Vice President for Europe, and addressed to Charles Michel, President of the European Council.
IATA argues in the letter that its travel pass will provide governments and authorities—as well as passengers and crews—with the necessary confidence in each passenger’s health status.
The proposed IATA digital travel passport would contain information regarding traveler vaccination as well as results for recently conducted COVID tests.
The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic to international travel have shaken the airline industry, leading to the lowest passenger numbers since 2019. IATA estimates that air traffic this year will be at half the 2019 level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the IATA Travel Pass?
It is a digital solution proposed to securely store passenger vaccination data and COVID-19 test results, thereby facilitating border crossings.
Who signed the letter to the European Council?
The request was signed by Rafael Schvartzman, IATA’s Vice President for Europe, and addressed to President Charles Michel.
How has the pandemic affected the aviation industry according to IATA?
The pandemic has drastically reduced passenger numbers, with IATA estimating that air traffic will reach only half of the 2019 level.