IATA express outrage over Istanbul airport attack

Geneva : The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expressed outrage at last night’s attack at Ataturk Airport Istanbul, Turkey.

“Once again, innocent travellers have been attacked in a cowardly and murderous act. Our thoughts are with the victims, and their families and friends,” said Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General and CEO.

“Last night’s attack was a broad attack on our shared humanity. But terrorism will never succeed in reversing the interconnectedness of the world. The desire of the human spirit to explore and trade will always triumph over suspicion and fear,” he added.

 The Istanbul airport was a testament to the resilience and determination of the Turkish people and the aviation industry. 

“The safety and security of passengers are our top priorities,” said Tyler, adding that the tragedy in Istanbul and the one in Brussels earlier this year show the growing challenge for governments to keep people safe in the unrestricted areas of the airport. 

He suggested moving people to the safest location in the airport quickly could mitigate risk. 

He asserted that IATA was working with governments and airports to mitigate such incidents by introducing initiatives to overcome threats.