Geneva - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) congratulated the European Commission on adopting the second package of legislation for a Single European Sky (SES).
“Every drop of fuel saved counts. With oil at US$135 and jet fuel even higher, saving fuel is critical for financial survival. And it is at the core of our commitment to improving environmental performance. Today’s adoption of the Single European Sky II package is a welcome response to IATA’s call for governments to act quickly to eliminate inefficiencies in air traffic management,” said Giovanni Bisignani, IATA’s Director General and CEO.
At its recent Annual General Meeting in Istanbul, Turkey, the 230 members of IATA agreed an Istanbul Declaration that asks governments, labour and service providers to show leadership and responsibility in this time of crisis. The Declaration specifically called for governments to “invest to modernise air transport infrastructure urgently, eliminating wasteful fuel consumption and emissions.”
“Vice President Tajani has quickly understood the urgency of the situation. Commission adoption is a step in the right direction, but we have a lot of ground to cover before a Single European Sky can become a reality,” said Bisignani.
“Only with the support of national governments will the European Parliament and the Council be able to follow up on Vice President Tajani’s quick action. I urge Europe’s national governments to put aside local politics and focus on what is best for Europe and for the environment. That is a Single European Sky with the ambitious objective of a 10% improvement in carbon emissions and fuel savings. After decades of discussion, it’s time for success,” said Bisignani.
Notes for Editors :
- IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 230 airlines comprising 93% of international scheduled air traffic.