SkyTeam first airline alliance to launch anti-human trafficking programme
SkyTeam has become the first major airline alliance to commit to a coordinated global initiative to tackle human trafficking, following the unanimous signing of a joint declaration by all its member airlines.
The announcement marks the formal launch of a multi-faceted response to a crime that affects tens of millions of people around the world and often involves air travel.
The declaration sets out the alliance’s ambition to raise awareness, strengthen training, and build partnerships with governments, law enforcement agencies, and non-governmental organisations.
The initiative also creates a dedicated working group made up of representatives from each member carrier, focused on practical implementation and cross-industry collaboration.
“This isn’t just a pledge – it’s a platform for change. Human trafficking is a hidden crime impacting 50 million people worldwide, many of whom are transported by air. The aviation industry must take action to help prevent this. As a global airline alliance, SkyTeam recognises its unique position to intervene. By uniting our efforts, we can drive change and have far greater impact than any single airline acting alone,” said Patrick Roux, CEO of SkyTeam.
The programme aims to standardise efforts across the alliance, supporting cabin and ground staff with the tools and training to identify and report suspected trafficking.
SkyTeam will also facilitate the exchange of best practices among its members to ensure a consistent response, regardless of the route or region.
“For years, SkyTeam member airlines have taken individual steps to help prevent human trafficking. This initiative brings those efforts together under a unified commitment – reinforcing what’s already been done while allowing us to go even further. By equipping and empowering our frontline teams, we strengthen our collective ability to take meaningful action and protect the most vulnerable among us,” said Andrés Conesa, Chairman of SkyTeam.
