Airlines hold fast to global consensus in fractured world

Global airlines made a full-throated defense of globalization on Monday at their largest annual gathering, vowing not to give up on climate change agreements and calling for a swift resolution of a diplomatic rift threatening air travel in the Middle East. Missing from the general meeting of the International Air Transport Association in Mexico was Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker. Usually a star of the show, he appeared to have left the summit amid a dispute between Arab powers. Asked about Saudi Arabia and Bahrain's move to ban Qatari planes from their airports and airspace, IATA Director General Alexandre de Juniac called for openness. "We would like borders to be reopened, the sooner the better," he said. "Aviation is globalization at its very best," he had told executives from IATA's more than 200 airlines. "As aviation's leaders, we must bear witness to the achievements of our connected world." Qatar Airways could not be reached for comment. The Arab rift was a stark reminder of the political risks to the airlines, which have run up healthy profits even as the global consensus they rely upon comes under the threat of nationalist and protectionist political currents.<br/>