International Air Transport Association
The International Air Transport Association (Iata) is the global trade association for the world's airlines, representing about 320 carriers that account for approximately 83% of total air traffic. Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, with executive offices in Geneva, Switzerland, Iata serves as the industry's voice in advocating for safe, secure and sustainable air transport. The organisation sets industry standards and best practices across areas including safety, security, operations, sustainability and passenger services. It develops and maintains critical infrastructure such as the Iata Operational Safety Audit programme, the Billing and Settlement Plan for ticket distribution, and the Cargo Accounts Settlement Systems. Iata also manages the airline designator codes used worldwide for flight identification and the three-letter airport codes familiar to travellers. The association plays a central role in coordinating industry responses to challenges such as climate change, advocating for policies that support aviation's energy transition while maintaining connectivity. Its annual general meeting brings together airline chief executives and industry leaders to set strategic direction. Iata was founded in Havana, Cuba, in April 1945, shortly after the end of the Second World War, succeeding the International Air Traffic Association established in 1919. The organisation has evolved alongside the growth of commercial aviation to become an essential coordinating body for global air transport.
International Air Transport Association Updates
IATA forecasts that global airline profitability will stabilise next year, but Africa will lag
By: Rebecca Campbell 9th December 2025 The global representative body for the airline industry, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), has issued its financial outlook for... →
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