Zim Among Top 10 Countries Blocking $1.03bn in Global Airline Revenues – IATA

By ETimes

HARARE – ZIMBABWE has been named among the 10 countries responsible for blocking 80% of global airline revenues currently trapped around the world—amounting to a staggering US$1.03 billion.

According to a report released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Zimbabwe alone is withholding US$68 million in funds owed to international airlines, placing it firmly in the global spotlight alongside countries like Mozambique, Algeria and Lebanon.

The total value of blocked airline funds globally stands at US$1.3 billion as of the end of April 2025. This is a significant amount, although it is an improvement of 25% compared with the US$1.7 billion reported in October 2024.

IATA warns that this ongoing crisis is undermining international air connectivity and economic development, particularly in regions like Africa and the Middle East, which together account for 85% of the blocked funds.

“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.

While some countries have made notable progress—such as Bangladesh and Pakistan, which significantly reduced their blocked funds from late 2024—Zimbabwe has not demonstrated similar improvement.

Mozambique, meanwhile, has overtaken others as the top violator, now withholding US$205 million.

The blocked funds crisis comes at a time when Zimbabwe is attempting to reengage with the global financial system and attract foreign investment. However, these efforts risk being undermined by a failure to uphold international aviation agreements. As airlines weigh the risks of continued operations in Zimbabwe, industry analysts warn that the country could see further isolation if no corrective action is taken.