The Role of IATA in Contingency Management

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) represents over 270 of the world's principle scheduled airlines reflecting 95% of international scheduled traffic. From its extensive network of regional and local offices, IATA conducts an expansive programme of activities to support the full range of the aviation business.

Across the board growth for IATA in recent years has not been accompanied by growth of membership dues. Indeed, the contribution to IATA from standing fees has reduced by 48% since 1984. IATA now largely funds its activities by providing self-financing programmes based on the analysis of Member needs.

To meet the growing demand for IATA to co-ordinate some of its mutually supportive activities, the "Crisis Management Services" initiative was recently launched by the Director General. Enveloping crisis communications, legal services, risk management, training and contingency management, IATA now has a comprehensive grouping to address industry concerns.

The IATA Contingency Management Forum (CM) offers an innovative approach to problem solving. Comprising the 2 distinct programmes of Aviation Business Continuity and Emergency Response Management, forum members are encouraged to consider not just the cause or the immediate response to an incident but also the long-term effects that such disruptions may have on the ability of the company to remain competitive. Uniquely, the CM Forum facilitates all players in the aviation business to contribute to the development of 'best practice'. The strength of the Forum is its flexible remit to consider equally the perspectives of airports, airlines and service providers.