IATA Says Airlines Prepared For Swine Flu

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) said on Thursday airlines were prepared to deal with the swine flu outbreak and noted the World Health Organization was not calling for restriction of regular travel.

The industry body warned earlier this week that swine flu will compound financial problems for airlines, already hard hit by the global economic crisis, which pushed passenger numbers down 11.1 percent in March compared with a year ago.

It said passengers should be reassured that the environment in plane cabins was safe due to air filtration systems similar to those in hospitals, regular disinfecting and crew trained in handling those who might become ill on board.

It noted the WHO had advised there should be no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders, although people who are ill should delay international travel.

"WHO is the global expert," said IATA Director General Giovanni Bisignani in a statement.

"We hope that governments take decisions and coordinate their actions in line with WHO recommendations," he said, adding that the move by some governments to adjust immigration procedures could create confusion for travelers.

IATA, which represents 230 airlines has said airlines would lose USD$4.7 billion this year as a result of the economic downturn that has kept people and cargo from flying.