Africa Weekly Aviation Trails: Week 21, 2024 Highlights.

Week 21 in African aviation saw few announcements on new airline routes and fleet upgrades. However, positive news emerged from Kenya with the release of their 2023 economic survey. The document highlights a significant increase in post-pandemic travel, indicating a promising recovery for the African aviation sector. Ethiopia also made a noteworthy announcement, opening its airspace to all interested airlines for operation. This move could increase competition and potentially lead to lower fares. Read and find out more below.

Introduction.

The 31st African Aviation Summit: Air Finance Africa Conference & Exhibition took place from Tuesday, 21st to Thursday, 23rd May, 2024. The event’s focus was on addressing the challenge of funding African airlines—both existing carriers and start-ups. Senior officials from leading African airlines and international financial experts tackled urgent issues and recommended practical solutions.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Wings of Change Focus Africa (WOCFA), a premier industry event in the region, brings together aviation leaders, regulators, and subject matter experts to discuss key challenges and opportunities in air transport. WOCFA will return for its second edition in Johannesburg, South Africa, on 2-3 July 2024, under the theme “Towards a More Resilient and Sustainable African Aviation,” with South African Airways as the host airline.

In Ethiopia, the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority announced a significant milestone by allowing private aviation operators to engage in domestic commercial and cargo flight services, breaking the state’s monopoly. However, representatives of private aviation firms’ expressed concerns, comparing the move to putting the cart before the horse, and remain skeptical about the new regulation’s impact.