Unlocking Africa’s Aviation Potential: IATA’s Call to Action
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has renewed its urgent call for reforms to unlock the vast, untapped potential of Africa’s aviation sector. Speaking at a virtual press conference, Somas Appavou, IATA’s Regional Director for External Affairs in Africa, emphasized the strategic importance of aviation for the continent’s economic development.
While African aviation currently contributes USD 75 billion to the continent’s GDP and supports 8.1 million jobs, its growth is hampered by significant challenges. IATA highlighted key areas requiring urgent attention, including safety concerns, high operational costs, and blocked airline funds.
Safety remains a paramount concern. Africa’s accident rate is significantly higher than the global average, with runway excursions being the most common incident type. IATA stresses the need for stricter adherence to global safety standards, improved accident investigation processes, and wider adoption of safety audits like the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA).
High operational costs pose another major obstacle. Fuel prices in Africa are 17% above the world average, exacerbated by limited refining capacity and supply chain inefficiencies. Taxes and charges are also 15% higher than the global average, further dampening demand and hindering growth. IATA advocates for closer collaboration between governments and industry to address these cost pressures.
The issue of blocked airline funds is particularly critical. African governments are currently withholding USD 1 billion in airline revenues, representing a staggering 73% of the global total. These blocked funds severely restrict airlines’ operational capacity, forcing them to reduce flights or even exit markets. IATA urges governments to prioritize the release of these funds to ensure the financial sustainability of the aviation sector.
Policy and structural barriers also hinder growth. Restrictive bilateral agreements and slow implementation of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) limit competition and route availability. IATA champions the full implementation of SAATM and alignment with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to enhance connectivity and market access.
Despite these challenges, Africa’s aviation sector holds immense promise. Projections indicate that by 2043, the industry could support 16 million jobs and contribute USD 190 billion to the continent’s GDP. Unlocking this potential, however, requires decisive action and strategic reforms.
IATA calls on African governments to recognize aviation as a strategic economic enabler and prioritize its development. Key recommendations include elevating safety performance, reducing taxes and charges, resolving blocked funds, investing in efficient infrastructure, and promoting openness and cooperation.
IATA’s Focus Africa initiative, launched in 2023, serves as a collaborative platform to drive these reforms. By bringing together public and private stakeholders, the initiative aims to address urgent challenges, implement effective solutions, and measure progress towards a more vibrant and sustainable aviation sector in Africa.
African travel agents have a vested interest in the success of these reforms. A thriving aviation sector is essential for facilitating travel and tourism, boosting economic activity, and creating new business opportunities. By advocating for these reforms and partnering with industry stakeholders, travel agents can play a crucial role in unlocking Africa’s aviation potential and shaping a brighter future for the continent.
IATA’s call to action is a wake-up call for African governments and industry leaders. The time for decisive action is now. By embracing these reforms, Africa can unlock the full potential of its aviation sector and soar to new heights of economic growth and prosperity.
