A new non-profit organization, the International Aviation Services Organization (IASO), was unveiled, coinciding with the first day of EBACE.

IASO’s mission is to provide a unified voice for aviation services companies at airports around the world. Created by a Board of Directors with decades of international industry experience, the organization will champion key issues affecting the airfreight, aviation services and logistics sector.

“Our goal is to improve safety and facilitate the highest standards in Aviation Services, working closely with established industry organizations to see how they can benefit in becoming an IASO member,” said Mr. Munir Khalifa, IASO President and Founder. IASO provides a direct representative link with other established associations, including IATA, ICAO, AAA and MEBAA, he said, speaking at the launch in Geneva.

IASO members will have access to an online database system–Aviation Ground Services Assessment (AGSA)–for auditing and measuring key risk factors, as well as discounted insurance and expeditious payment for services rendered.

A sophisticated arbitration-resolution mechanism ensures ISAO members have access to quality service.

The Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) and MIXJET are founding members and will follow IASO’s vision to speak with one voice, pursuing one consistent level of industry standards that will “level the playing field” for all aviation services providers thereby guaranteeing the highest level of service, cost-savings and efficiency.

Small industry supply companies can also benefit by utilizing IASO’s resources with key tools such as ground damage reporting tool, audit support and fuel price efficiency, Mr Munir Khalifa added.

IASO will work as an umbrella association for all aviation services companies all over the world. It embraces two sub-organizations—International Handling Agents’ Organization (IHAO) and International Fuel Service Organization (IFSO).