Thursday Nov 14, 2024
Thursday Nov 14, 2024
Monday, 9 June 2014 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
A unanimous resolution adopted by IATA members called upon governments and industry to work together on a balanced package of measures to effectively deter and manage the significant problem of unruly air passenger behaviour.
Such behaviour includes committing physical assault, disturbing good order on board or failing to follow lawful crew instructions.
“This resolution confirms the determination of airlines to defend the rights of their passengers and crew,” said IATA Director General and Chief Executive Officer Tony Tyler.
“Everybody on board is entitled to enjoy a journey free from abusive or other unacceptable behaviour. Many airlines have trained both ground staff and cabin crew in procedures not only to manage incidents of unruly behaviour but also in measures to prevent them. But a robust solution needs alignment among airlines, airports, and governments.”
Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker, who is the President of this year’s IATA AGM, led more than 1,000 airline leaders and delegates for three days of engaging discussion and debate.
“This meeting has enabled and facilitated the discussion of key resolutions and reforms within our industry, all for the benefit of the passengers we serve, such as yesterday’s unanimous agreement on tackling unruly passenger behaviour.
“As one of the fastest growing airlines, Qatar Airways will move toward a pre-emptive solution and ensure to involve all stakeholders in stemming the problem of unruly passenger behaviour,” said Al Baker.
The IATA AGM is the only aviation meeting where such a large number of member airlines meet to discuss issues and strategies that strengthen the industry. This year’s event will be particularly significant as the aviation industry is celebrating 100 years since the first scheduled commercial flight.
The visiting delegates arrived in Doha at the newly opened Hamad International Airport, Qatar’s new global state-of-the-art gateway, for the conference held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Doha.
The IATA AGM opening press briefing was attended by around 200 media comprising of both international and local press.
The head table delegation who addressed the media included IATA Director General and CEO Tony Tyler, Qatar Airways CEO and President of the 70th IATA AGM, Akbar Al Baker, and IATA Vice President Corporate Communications Tony Concil.
Key points discussed during the opening sessions and press briefing included the challenges, safety and security aspects, and the infrastructure issues facing the aviation industry.
