IATA: $1.2bn in airline revenues still blocked worldwide

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has reported that USD 1.2 billion in airline revenues remain blocked from repatriation by governments worldwide including Bangladesh as of the end of October 2025.

The figure represents only a marginal improvement of USD 100 million since April.

According to IATA, 93% of all blocked funds are trapped in Africa and the Middle East, where airlines continue to face severe restrictions in accessing foreign currency and transferring earnings from ticket sales, cargo services, and other operations—despite protections guaranteed under bilateral air service agreements.

IATA urged governments to immediately lift restrictions and allow airlines access to their revenues in U.S. dollars. The association warned that complex approval procedures, delays, and foreign exchange shortages are undermining the financial stability of carriers and disrupting global connectivity.

“Airlines need reliable access to their revenues in U.S. dollars to keep operations running, pay their bills, and maintain vital connectivity,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

“Governments have committed to unfettered repatriation in bilateral agreements. Fulfilling that commitment is essential—especially given the industry’s low margins and high dollar-denominated costs.”

Walsh added that freeing airline revenues is in governments’ own economic interest. “Airlines are key catalysts for investment and growth.

Governments should prioritise repatriation even when foreign currency is in short supply,” he said.

Ten Countries Account for 89% of Blocked Airline Funds

IATA said USD 1.08 billion—or 89% of the total—remains stuck in ten countries across Africa, the Middle East and South Asia. Bangladesh is among them, with USD 32 million in trapped airline earnings.