Africa Weekly Aviation Trails: Week 11, 2024 Highlights.

In Week 11 of 2024, two regional economic blocs emphasized the urgent need for airspace liberalization, signaling a move towards improved connectivity and economic prosperity. Additionally, ACI World – Airports Council International renowned Airport Service Quality (ASQ) awards for 2023 were unveiled, honoring exceptional airports throughout Africa. Explore these impactful events and more in the detailed article below.

Introduction.

In a whirlwind of developments during Week Eleven, two influential Regional Economic Communities (RECs) raised their voices in unison, advocating for the implementation of open skies policies within their respective blocs. The Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), encompassing 16 member states, made a resounding call to action during the Southern African Industrial Forum in February 2024. Leaders in the aviation sector within SADC highlighted critical hurdles such as burdensome regulations, visa restrictions, exorbitant taxes and fees, and a lack of collaborative efforts hindering the region’s economic advancement.

Simultaneously, the East Africa Community (EAC), consisting of eight partner states, echoed these urgent demands, urging for swift airspace liberalization to drastically reduce air travel costs across East Africa. The EAC’s legislative body emphasized the necessity of a unified airspace accessible to all airlines registered and licensed within the EAC partner states.

The potential benefits of such airspace liberalization are staggering. A recent report by International Air Transport Association (IATA) projects a remarkable 35% decrease in airfares and an additional 5 million Africans embracing air travel if just 12 African economies embrace open skies policies. Moreover, this bold step could generate 155,000 new job opportunities and inject a substantial $1.3 billion into the continent’s GDP.