Africa Airspace Liberalization: A Continent Stuck In A Holding Pattern.

The Single Africa Air Transport Market (SAATM) stands as a pioneering initiative under the African Union‘s Agenda 2063, aimed at forging a unified air transport market across the continent. This visionary move promises substantial freedoms for air transport, particularly for passenger and cargo operations from the first through the fifth freedom, all while preserving cabotage rights.

However, SAATM has encountered significant challenges and criticism from certain African governments and airlines. They argue that the agreement could result in a scenario where a few major airlines dominate the market, potentially stifling competition. Despite these concerns, development organizations and independent analysts foresee a multitude of benefits. These include the potential for reduced airfares, increased air travel accessibility for the masses, and a positive economic ripple effect across African economies.

SAATM, born in 2015 and officially unveiled during the 30th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa on 28 January 2018, represents a monumental step towards realizing the ambitions set forth in the 1999 Yammoussoukro Decision (YD). This decision builds upon the foundational Yamoussoukro Declaration of 1988, emphasizing the need for a unified African air transport market.

At its core, SAATM entrusts the African Civil Aviation Commission AFCAC, a specialized agency of the African Union, as its implementing arm. Working hand in hand with the Regional Economic Communities (RECs), SAATM aims to encourage member states to progressively liberalize both scheduled and non-scheduled intra-Africa air transport services. This collaborative effort marks a significant stride towards enhancing connectivity and fostering economic growth across the African continent.

As a crucial step in promoting SAATM, AFCAC, in collaboration with African Airlines Association (AFRAA), organized a capacity-building workshop focused on the Yammoussoukro Declaration/Decision Regulatory Text for airlines. Held at the East Africa School of Aviation (EASA) in Nairobi from 18-20 March 2024, this event was jointly organized with the Africa Union Commission (AUC). A representative from AeroTrail was privileged to be among the participants of this enlightening workshop, where valuable insights were shared and key information was gleaned.