This could become the first step towards true market liberalisation and openness and “unlock the significant economic benefits that can be derived from a more open and competitive air cargo market,” TIACA said.
The association supports liberalisation of air cargo and express delivery services for unfettered market access. It also believes that bilateral negotiations should not restrict the ability of air carriers to move air cargo in any international market between two points anywhere in the world.
Air cargo and express transportation should be seen as economic development tools, facilitating the movement of goods between all markets, according to TIACA Industry Affairs committee member and CEO of Coyne Airways, Larry Coyne.
“We believe that a separate cargo annex should be pursued as the first step towards market liberalisation and openness. Often developing countries see the advantages of market openness for the movement of goods before they recognise the same advantages on the passenger side.
“Present bilateral negotiating structures often inhibit the growth of air cargo, due to political and structural resistance. It is TIACA’s intent to make a modest shift in the current bilateral log jam which might lead to a general application of open skies, based on a balance of benefits to both markets.
“This will encourage wider liberalisation,” Coyne argued. “Positive progress towards multi-lateral freedoms for cargo would support the current parallel work on liberalisation principles in the OECD and the Trans-Atlantic Common Area negotiations between the EU and the USA,” he said.
According to the TIACA’s proposal, a new generic agreement for cargo flights would grant the same rights and privileges – on a reciprocal basis – to all signatories.
“The benefits of liberalised agreements would be open to all carriers, irrespective of national ownership. We would like to see a mutually acceptable supervisory body be responsible for the transparent and equitable operation of all resulting agreements,” Coyne added.
The aim, according to TIACA, is for the establishment of a multi-lateral group of countries permitting fifth, sixth andseventh freedom rights.