IFA Statement on COVID-19
“We want the air to unite the peoples, and not to divide them.[1]” Solidarity at a time of unprecedent threat is not a luxury it’s a necessity. Across the globe the impact of the coronavirus COVID-19 goes beyond the experience of recent decades. The interconnected nature of the world has presented a menace that requires us all to rise to the challenge.
Aviation and aerospace are helping to solve problems. By repatriating people, shipping medical supplies and converting to the supply of medical equipment there’s much that the industry’s engineering expertise can contribute.
Aviation and aerospace are facing a shut down that strikes at the heart of the industry. A great number of the workforce will be staying at home although some will be working remotely. IFA supports the retention of skills and knowledge to ensure that the restarting of the industry will be safe and successful.
Despite all the demands placed on Government’s it’s important to ensure that a viable industry is secured for the future. Regulators are doing their part. Support the aviation and aerospace, and their supply chains must be given practical consideration.
Internationally, some businesses will fail, and jobs will be lost. Thus, it is vitally important that education and training are given a boost to give everyone the best opportunity to get back on their feet once the virus threat has cleared.
IFA will not be scheduling or participating in public events in the first half of this year. Our hope is that people will follow official International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), World Health Organisation (WHO) and Authorities advice and guidance.
Let’s stay safe through these difficult times.
[1] Viscount Swinton, first Minister of Civil Aviation UK, during debate in the House of Lords, 1945.
