IATA warns govts must be ready to 'buffer' consequences of coronavirus containment measures

IATA director general and CEO Alexandre de Junaic stated (12-Mar-2020) that while governments "must impose the measures they consider necessary to contain the virus", they must also "be fully prepared to provide support to buffer the economic dislocation that this will cause". As previously reported by CAPA, US President Donald Trump announced the suspension of entry into the US of all foreign travellers who were physically present in the Schengen Area during the 14 days prior to their intended entry into the US, due to the potential for transmission of coronavirus. IATA warned the economic fallout of this decision will be broad, as there were approximately 200,000 flights scheduled between the US and the Schengen Area in 2019, translating to about 46 million passengers. "Suspending travel on such a broad scale will create negative consequences across the economy. Governments must recognise this and be ready to support", Mr de Juniac said. [more - original PR]