$1.3 Billion in Airline Funds Blocked by Governments

Airlines Stuck Waiting for $1.3 Billion Release

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that, as of the end of April 2025, $1.3 billion in airline funds are blocked from repatriation by various governments. While this is still a significant amount, it reflects a 25% improvement compared to the $1.7 billion reported in October 2024.

IATA called on governments to eliminate barriers hindering airlines’ timely repatriation of revenues from ticket sales and other operations, as outlined in international agreements and treaty obligations.

“Ensuring the timely repatriation of revenues is vital for airlines to cover dollar-denominated expenses and maintain their operations. Delays and denials violate bilateral agreements and increase exchange rate risks. Reliable access to revenues is critical for any business—particularly airlines which operate on very thin margins. Economies and jobs rely on international connectivity. Governments must realize that it is a challenge for airlines to maintain connectivity when revenue repatriation is denied or delayed,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

10 Countries are Responsible for 80% of Blocked Funds

10 countries account for 80% of the total blocked funds, amounting to $1.03 billion.

XAF Zone (Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, and Gabon)

Country Highlights

Pakistan and Bangladesh, previously in the top five blocked funds countries, have made notable progress in clearing their backlog to $83 million and $92 million, respectively (from $311 million and $196 million in October 2024, respectively).

Mozambique has climbed to the top of blocked funds countries, withholding $205 million from airlines, compared with $127 million in October 2024. The Africa and Middle East (AME) region accounts for 85% of total blocked funds, at $1.1 billion as of end April 2025.

The most significant improvement was noted in Bolivia, which fully cleared its backlog, which stood at $42 million at the end of October 2024.