IATA encourage African aviation connectivity

02 May 2013 2058 | Business & Trade Fairs

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called on African governments to enhance industry relations to improve safety and encourage competitiveness and liberalisation.

Aviation accounts for 6.7 million African jobs and $68 billion in African GDP.

“The benefits of aviation connectivity go far beyond these figures,” IATA director general chief executive Tony Tyler said.

“With a few kilometres of runway the most remote region can be connected to the global community and that could mean access to vital sources of health care and emergency assistance; jobs selling products in global markets or welcoming tourists; or opportunities for education, exploring the world or creating business.”

Safety is an ongoing challenge for the African aviation industry.

In 2012 Western-built jet aircraft airlines averaged one hull loss for every five million flights, while the African average was one for every 270,000 flights.

IATA has teamed with the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and other organisations to form the African Strategic Improvement Action Plan.

Buying jet fuel in Africa is about 21 percent more expensive than the global average, while Africa also suffers the impact of onerous direct taxes on tickets.

“There should be a joined-up policy framework that is focused on the benefits of connectivity which would grow in a more favourable tax environment,” Mr Tyler said.

Connectivity is a vital component and catalyst for economic growth for the African aviation industry.

“Ties must be enabled by agreements among governments,” Mr Tyler said.

“As the African Union celebrates its first half-century of success, there is no better way to look towards the future than with a vision for a continent that is connected and working together with safe, efficient, and abundant air links.”