Imagine running a business where you sell your products in certain markets but access to your revenue was not guaranteed. Would you keep operating there? For many airlines, this isnt hypothetical its a reality.
Despite selling tickets and providing services, millions of dollars in airline revenue remain trapped in countries for extended periods of time. In aviation, this problem is known as blocked funds, and its a serious threat to global connectivity and economic growth.
Blocked funds are revenues earned by international airlines in local currencies that cannot be repatriated in US dollars due to government-imposed restrictions or foreign exchange shortages. Why does this happen?