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La 53ème AGA de l’AFRAA établit une feuille de route pour la transformation et le développement économique du transport aérien en Afrique

17 novembre 2021, Nairobi, Kenya :

Lors de la 53ème Assemblée générale annuelle et Sommet de l’AFRAA qui s’est achevée aujourd’hui, les dirigeants et décideurs du transport aérien ont établi une feuille de route pour la transformation et le développement économique du transport aérien en Afrique. L’événement s’est déroulé sous le parrainage du gouvernement angolais sous le thème :«Chemin vers l’écosystème de voyage résilient de l’Afrique».

L’AGA de l’AFRAA est le plus grand rassemblement des PDG des compagnies aériennes africaines et des dirigeants de l’aviation de haut niveau  en Afrique et dans le monde. L’événement de cette année a été parrainé par TAAG Angola Airlines en format virtuel. L’Assemblée a réuni plus de 400 délégués de 51 nationalités à travers le monde, comprenant des décideurs et des leaders de l’aviation. Des associations internationales et régionales de transport aérien, notamment l’Union africaine, l’IATA, l’OACI, l’AFCAC et l’ALTA, étaient également représentées lors de l’événement.

L’invité d’honneur, l’honorable Ricardo de Abreu, ministre des transports de la République d’Angola, a déclaré dans son discours d’ouverture que : « la présente AGA est l’occasion idéale pour se pencher sur l’avenir de l’aviation africaine et renforcer l’engagement des parties prenantes afin de permettre à tous les secteurs de nos économies de bénéficier des multiples avantages. L’échec n’est pas une option, ensemble nous réussirons. Il a souligné les diverses mesures et initiatives prises par le gouvernement angolais pour améliorer le secteur de l’aviation et faire de Luanda un hub efficace».

M. Abdérahmane Berthé, Secrétaire général de l’AFRAA, a déclaré en substance que : « L’Assemblée de cette année nous donne l’occasion de repenser notre secteur et de développer une perspective résiliente et durable pour l’industrie du transport aérien. L’AFRAA demeurera fidèle à sa mission qui est de promouvoir et de servir les compagnies aériennes africaines et de défendre le secteur aérien africain – De meilleurs cieux pour l’Afrique – qui reste le pilier de toutes nos actions».

En ce qui concerne la reprise, M. Berthé a souligné que les ingrédients d’un redémarrage réussi sont les suivants : les mesures pour des voyages en sécurité, la suppression des restrictions aux voyages, le soutien financier aux compagnies aériennes, la technologie pour façonner la « nouvelle normalité », la réinvention et la redéfinition des modèles d’affaires des compagnies aériennes, la coopération entre les compagnies aériennes africaines et la confiance des passagers.

Dans son allocution, le Président de l’AFRAA pour 2021, M. Rui Carreira, a déclaré que :  « La présente AGA offre un forum unique aux compagnies aériennes et aux parties prenantes pour discuter, partager des idées et explorer les solutions qui peuvent être mises en œuvre pour la rapide restauration du secteur aérien. Les compagnies aériennes africaines doivent profiter de cette occasion pour sortir, plus fortes et plus résistantes, de la crise afin de relever les défis du secteur. La coopération et la collaboration entre les compagnies aériennes africaines par le biais d’initiatives telles que la coordination des réseaux et la maîtrise conjointe des coûts sont autant d’initiatives qui permettront aux compagnies aériennes de surmonter rapidement les effets de la pandémie. »

Tendances positives vers la reprise

Une analyse approfondie des perspectives de l’industrie faite au cours de l’Assemblée a indiqué que les compagnies aériennes sont sur une trajectoire positive de reprise, étant donné que les compagnies aériennes africaines avaient rouvert 81,3 % de leurs routes internationales en octobre 2021 et que la reprise en Afrique et au Moyen-Orient a été plus harmonieuse et plus constante qu’en Europe et en Asie. Cependant en Afrique, la croissance sous-régionale est variée et guidée par des dynamiques de marché différentes.

L’analyse a en outre révélé que les compagnies aériennes africaines ont augmenté leur flotte régionale depuis 2020, ce qui permet une pénétration plus profonde du marché et un meilleur flux. La capacité de fret africaine a augmenté de 33 % depuis 2019 et les coefficients de remplissage de ce dernier se sont améliorés de 9 % par rapport aux niveaux d’avant la pandémie. L’aube de la reprise est un moment décisif pour redéfinir les plans stratégiques des cinq prochaines années.

Résolutions relative au secteur

L’Assemblée s’est terminée par l’adoption de trois (3) résolutions pour faire avancer la cause de l’aviation africaine :

  1. Résolution relative à la réouverture protégée des frontières

Reconnaissant que la réouverture sûre des frontières de manière harmonisée est essentielle pour le redémarrage efficace de l’aviation africaine, l’Assemblée a demandé aux gouvernements africains de supprimer les restrictions aux frontières et d’ouvrir leurs marchés pour la relance du secteur avec le concours des normes et des documents d’orientation du plan de redémarrage du secteur. L’Assemblée a par ailleurs lancé un appel aux gouvernements africains pour qu’ils accélèrent le déploiement rapide des vaccins sur le continent afin de faciliter le redémarrage des économies et du transport aérien.

2. Résolution relative à l’appui financier aux compagnies aériennes

Reconnaissant l’importance de l’appui financier pour la relance du secteur du transport aérien, l’Assemblée a lancé un appel aux gouvernements africains afin qu’ils accordent l’appui et l’assistance  financiers tant nécessaires pour les compagnies aériennes africaines et pour le secteur aérien africain en général.

3. Résolution relative à l’approche conceptuelle de laboratoire afin de réaliser la durabilité des compagnies aériennes africaines

Reconnaissant l’importance d’aborder la question de la durabilité et de la compétitivité du transport aérien en Afrique, l’Assemblée a préconisé un laboratoire réunissant toutes les parties prenantes concernées pour une opportunité de transformation en vue du développement économique du transport aérien en Afrique. Le Secrétariat de l’AFRAA, en concertation avec la Commission de l’Union Africaine (CUA), la Commission Africaine de l’Aviation Civile (AFCAC) et le Groupe de l’industrie aérienne africaine (AAIG), organisera le laboratoire avant la fin du mois de mars 2022.

Les officiels de l’Association pour 2022 

La 53ème AGA de l’AFRAA a élu M. Ibrahima Kane, Directeur Général d’Air Sénégal,  comme Président de l’Association pour l’exercice 2022. Le capitaine Pascal Kasongo Mwema, directeur général de Congo Airways, Mme Yvonne Makolo, directrice générale de RwandAir, et M. Mohamed Khalifa Biyah, directeur général  de Mauritania Airlines, ont été réélus respectivement président, premier et deuxième vice-présidents pour le même exercice.

Hôte de la 54ème AGA

Air Sénégal accueillera la 54ème Assemblée Générale Annuelle qui se tiendra en novembre 2022 à Dakar, Sénégal.

FIN

À propos de l’AFRAA

L’Association des compagnies aériennes africaines, également connue sous le sigle AFRAA, est une association professionnelle de compagnies aériennes des États membres de l’Union africaine (UA). Fondée à Accra, au Ghana en avril 1968 et ayant son siège à Nairobi, Kenya. L’AFRAA a pour mission de promouvoir et de servir les compagnies aériennes africaines et de défendre l’industrie aérienne africaine. L’Association a la vision d’un secteur du transport aérien durable, interconnecté et abordable en Afrique, où les compagnies aériennes africaines deviennent des acteurs clés et des moteurs du développement économique africain.

Les 46 compagnies aériennes membres de l’AFRAA couvrent l’ensemble du continent et comprennent tous les grands opérateurs intercontinentaux africains. Les membres de l’Association représentent plus de 85% de tout le  trafic international transporté par les compagnies aériennes africaines.

À propos de TAAG Angola

TAAG Angola Airlines S.A (en portugais : TAAG Linhas Aéreas de Angola S.A.) est la compagnie aérienne étatique et le transporteur national de l’Angola. Basée à Luanda, la compagnie aérienne exploite une flotte mixte de Boeing et de Havilland Dash 8 Q400 pour des services domestiques, des services moyen-courriers en Afrique et des services long-courriers vers le Brésil, le Cuba et le Portugal. Au départ la compagnie aérienne a été créée, en 1938 par le gouvernement sous le nom de DTA, Divisão dos Transportes Aéreos, puis rebaptisée, en 1973 TAAG Angola Airlines  et a obtenu, en 1975, le statut de transporteur national. La TAAG est actuellement membre de l’Association des compagnies aériennes africaines et de l’Association internationale du transport aérien. Elle entretient des partenariats commerciaux avec Kenya Airways, South African Airways, LAM, Royal Air Maroc, Air France, KLM et Lufthansa et Brussels Airlines.

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Press Release: AFRAA’s 53rd AGA sets Roadmap for the Transformation and the Economic Development of Air Transport in Africa

Nairobi, Kenya – 17 November, 2021: Air transport leaders and decision makers set a roadmap for transformation and the economic development of air transport in Africa at the 53rd AFRAA Annual General Assembly & Summit that has concluded today. The event was held under the patronage of the Government of Angola under the theme: “Flightpath to Africa’s resilient travel ecosystem.”

The AFRAA AGA is the premier gathering of African airline CEOs and high level aviation executives in Africa and across the globe. This year’s event was hosted by TAAG Angola Airlines in virtual format. The Assembly brought together over 400 delegates from 51 nationalities across the globe comprising of decision-makers and aviation leaders. International and regional air transport associations including the African union, IATA, ICAO, AFCAC, ALTA were also represented at the event.

The Chief Guest, Honorable Ricardo de Abreu, the Transport Minister of the Republic of Angola in his opening speech remarked: “This AGA is the perfect occasion to address the future of African Aviation and enhance stakeholders’ commitment to enable the multitude of benefits to be experienced across all sectors of our economies. Failure is not an option, together we will succeed. He highlighted various ongoing measures and initiatives by the Angolan Government to improve the aviation sector and develop Luanda into an efficient hub.”

Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé, AFRAA’s Secretary General, stated: “This year’s Assembly provides an opportunity to rethink our industry and develop a resilient and sustainable perspective for the airline industry. AFRAA will keep by our mission to promote and serve African airlines and champion Africa’s aviation industry – Better Skies for Africa – remains the pillar of all our actions.”

Looking at recovery, Mr. Berthé highlighted that the ingredients for successful restart include: Safe travel measures, removal of travel restrictions, financial support to airlines, technology to shape the ‘new normal’, reinvention and redefinition of airline business models, cooperation among African airlines and passenger confidence.

AFRAA 2021 President, Mr. Rui Carreira in his remarks stated: “This AGA presents a unique forum for airlines and stakeholders to discuss, share ideas and explore solutions that can be implemented to rapidly restore the airline industry. African airlines should utilize this opportunity to emerge stronger and more resilient out of the crisis to face the challenges of the industry. Cooperation and collaboration among African airlines through initiatives such as network coordination and joint cost containment are among the initiatives that will enable airlines rapidly overcome the impacts of the pandemic.”

Positive trends into recovery
An in-depth analysis of the industry’s outlook made during the Assembly indicated that there are positive trends of airlines into recovery, noting that African airlines had reopened 81.3% of their international routes in October 2021 and recovery in Africa & Middle East has been smoother and steadier than in Europe and Asia. However, the sub-regional growth in Africa is varied and driven by different market dynamics.

The analysis further revealed that African airlines have been growing regional fleet since 2020, allowing a deeper market penetration and a better feed. African cargo capacity grew by 33% since 2019 and cargo load factors improved by 9% from pre-pandemic levels. The dawn of recovery is critical time to redefine strategic plans for the next five years

Industry Resolutions
The Assembly concluded with the adoption of three (3) industry resolutions to advance the cause of African aviation:

i. Resolution on safe reopening of borders
Recognizing that safe reopening of borders in a harmonized manner is critical for the efficient restart of African aviation, the Assembly urged African governments to remove border restrictions and open their markets to restart the industry with support from Industry Restart Plan Standards and guidance documentation. The Assembly further called upon African governments to accelerate the rapid roll out of vaccines across the continent and embrace the use of digital technology health platforms to facilitate the restart of economies and air transport.

ii. Resolution on financial support to African airlines
Recognizing the importance of financial support for the recovery of the air transport industry, the Assembly called upon African governments to extend the much-needed financial support and relief to African airlines and the African aviation industry at large.

iii. Resolution on Lab concept approach for attainment of sustainability of African airlines
Recognizing the importance of addressing the sustainability and competitiveness of Africa’s air transport, the Assembly called for a laboratory convening all relevant stakeholders as a transformation opportunity for the economic development of air transport in Africa. AFRAA Secretariat in coordination with the African Union Commission (AUC), The African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), and the African Aviation Industry Group (AAIG) shall convene the LAB by the end of March 2022.

2022 Officials of the Association
The 53rd AFRAA AGA elected Mr Ibrahima Kane, Chief Executive Officer – Air Senegal as the President of the Association for the year 2022. Capt. Pascal Kasongo Mwema, Chief Executive of Congo Airways, Ms. Yvonne Makolo Chief Executive of RwandAir and Mr. Mohamed Khalifa Biyah, CEO of Mauritania Airlines were re-elected as the Chairman, 1st and 2nd Vice Chairmen for the year 2022 respectively.

Host of the 54th AGA
Air Senegal will host the 54th Annual General Assembly set to be held in November, 2022 in Dakar – Senegal.

The Press Release can be downloaded here

–END–
About AFRAA
The African Airlines Association, also known by its acronym AFRAA, is a trade association of airlines from the member states of the African Union (AU). Founded in Accra, Ghana, in April 1968, and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, AFRAA’s mission is to promote, serve African Airlines and champion Africa’s aviation industry. The Association envisions a sustainable, interconnected and affordable Air Transport industry in Africa where African Airlines become key players and drivers to African economic development.

AFRAA membership of 46 airlines cuts across the entire continent and includes all the major intercontinental African operators. The Association members represent over 85% of total international traffic carried by African airlines.

About TAAG Angola
TAAG Angola Airlines S.A (Portuguese: TAAG Linhas Aéreas de Angola S.A.) is the state-owned airline and flag carrier of Angola. Based in Luanda, the airline operates a mixed fleet of Boeing and Havilland Dash 8 Q400 on domestic services within Angola, medium-haul services in Africa and long-haul services to Brazil, Cuba, and Portugal. The airline was originally set up by the government as DTA – Divisão dos Transportes Aéreos in 1938, rechristened TAAG Angola Airlines in 1973, and gained flag carrier status in 1975. TAAG is currently a member of both the African Airlines Association and the International Air Transport Association. The airline has commercial partnerships with Kenya Airways, South African Airways, LAM, Royal Air Maroc, Air France, KLM and Lufthansa and Brussels Airlines.

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2021 African Aviation Industry Group (AAIG) Aeropolitical Forum, 18 November 2021

We are pleased to inform you that the African Aviation Industry Group (AAIG) Aeropolitical Forum is scheduled to take place under the theme: “African Aviation Restart and Recovery” on Thursday 18th November 2021, 12:00pm-16:00pm Nairobi Time (UTC + 3).

Air transport is vital to the safe and efficient movement of people, goods and services across Africa. Considering the patchwork of responses to the COVID pandemic with the resultant delay in a much-needed revival of the Sector, it is imperative that a risk-based approach is adopted to ensure in particular that passenger Airlines have a fighting chance at survival. We have seen iterations of this risk-based approach with visible and positive results in the EU and parts of the Far-East. We therefore believe that the motivation for this Webinar is compelling in bringing together leaders in African aviation to discuss and proffer practical solutions to achieving a sustainable Risk -Based framework to secure an effective restart to Intra-African Aviation.

This webinar will showcase the key challenges affecting African aviation. The sessions and speakers have been carefully chosen to ensure robust discussions and the development of short, medium and long term activities aimed at complimenting ongoing initiatives in African aviation.

The AAIG webinar is organized by the African Aviation Industry Group (AAIG) comprising key industry stakeholders such as the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), International Air Transport Association (IATA), Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA), CANSO, Airport Council International (Africa) and Original Equipment Manufacturers (Boeing, Embraer, etc).

This event will be a virtual format. We will share the login details closer to the event. The Agenda of the event can be accessed here

Kindly confirm your attendance by registering at the link below:

https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_rQDmSETcTien0dNL2s4MDA

Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to your confirmation and to very fruitful deliberations.

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Press Release: AFRAA Inks MoU with ALTA for mutual benefit of Airlines in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean Region

Nairobi, 29 October 2021 – The African Airlines Association (AFRAA) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA) to support the socio-economic integration, prosperity and sustainable development of civil aviation in the regions represented by the two Associations.

The MoU was signed by Abdérahmane Berthé, AFRAA’s Secretary General and José Ricardo Botelho, ALTA’s Executive Director & CEO at the 2021 ALTA Airline Leaders Forum in Bogota, Colombia.

Under the framework of the collaboration, AFRAA and ALTA will work closely on actions to achieve common objectives for the mutual benefit of their membership on advocacy at global level, airline cost-saving best practices, airline financing, environmental sustainability, liberalization and connectivity, data exchange, training and addressing the subject of high taxes, charges and fees.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, AFRAA Secretary General, Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé stated: “The airline industry in Africa faces various similar opportunities and challenges as those experienced in the Latin American and Caribbean regions. AFRAA is excited to forge a close working relationship with ALTA as this will facilitate the sharing of information and ideas to enhance the development of air transport and address the common challenges faced by airlines in our respective regions.”

The MoU synergizes the unique expertise and experience by both Associations. AFRAA and ALTA will hold regular meetings to review the implementation of the annual Action Plan and explore areas for future collaboration.

About   AFRAA

The African Airlines Association, also known by its acronym AFRAA, is a trade association of airlines from the member states of the African Union (AU). Founded in Accra, Ghana, in April 1968, and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, AFRAA’s mission is to promote, serve African Airlines and champion Africa’s aviation industry. The Association envisions a sustainable, interconnected and affordable Air Transport industry in Africa where African Airlines become key players and drivers to African economic development.

AFRAA membership of 46 airlines cuts across the entire continent and includes all the major intercontinental African operators. The Association members represent over 85% of total international traffic carried by African airlines. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

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Boeing Capital Corporation: The Burning Questions on Aircraft Financing in Africa

Understanding the essential elements of aircraft finance and how to pivot toward success given the current environment

 In this Q&A with AFRAA, Boeing Capital Corporation executives Vasgen Edwards, managing director; Lereece Rose, senior finance director; and Sam Muhumuza, account manager, discuss aviation finance in Africa.

What are current headwinds facing African Airlines?

Edwards: There are a number of hurdles to be met when financing aviation assets in this geography. Anecdotally, through interactions with airlines across Sub-Saharan Africa, the following challenges are apparent: recovering from ravages of the COVID-19 pandemic, finance costs, finance availability and appetite for ownership considerations. Certainly, there are positives in the region including the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) asserting its open skies mandate, Cape Town Convention status enabling easier repossession and importantly funding at a lower cost and global liquidity which all play an important role. Yet these factors only bear consideration once the bigger hurdles mentioned above have been crossed.

Notably, despite near-term headwinds, there are good opportunities as Africa reflects the fastest growing working age population. Also, a burgeoning freight market should create greater opportunities across the continent. Boeing estimates that by 2029, more than 1,000 aircraft will be needed in Africa, most of which will constitute growth as opposed to replacement of an aging fleet.

Boeing’s forecast of aircraft replacement in Africa

Source: Boeing

 Africa’s working age population growth

Source: Boeing

 How can industry navigate toward profitability post pandemic?

Return to growth pathways will require changes in approach as plans for new cap-ex are solidified. What we potentially see is an environment with closer co-operation within the existing financial ecosystem that will be augmented by an extension to new sources of financing.

 The good news is that a number of financing options are available to airline operators and financiers as they explore and develop post-pandemic strategies. The full breadth of financing pathways, including lease solutions, alongside various Export Credit Agency (ECA) options, will certainly continue to play a role and discussions at the outset of any financial planning assessment should capture all the financial products that are suitable. Boeing Capital Corporation (BCC) continually works with Boeing customers and industry financiers to help determine the best solution for their particular situation. This on-going transaction support has proven instrumental in offering customers and financiers a better understanding of particular market nuances.

Boeing Capital delivery funding in Africa

Source: Boeing

What are some practical steps that can help ensure a successful financing outcome?

Muhumuza: Prior to the airline going to market, a clearly formulated strategy set out in the form a business plan will help maximize a successful outcome with stakeholders. Utilizing support from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), airlines should consider the following:

 Boeing Capital preparation phase / go to market / optimize solution

Source: Boeing

 

What are expectations around increased finance costs relative to perceived and real risks?

Edwards: Increased risk in Africa is a reality for most financiers because their models take into account a number of factors including but not limited to:

  • Defaults at both country and airline level
  • Difficulty in repatriation of funds
  • Economies that are largely dependent on a single resource to drive revenue and growth (e.g. oil production)
  • Revenue and income currency mismatches
  • The overall stability of the business, country and region

While determining the above risks is somewhat beyond the control of an airline, perceived risk can be managed to a greater degree with thorough preparation and providing comprehensive information to financiers. BCC is in a position to facilitate understanding of the market and the risk and reward framework that underpins aircraft financing. For many years, our outreach programs have facilitated the on-boarding of numerous financial institutions into the aviation financing community through regular market updates on a global basis. BCC has also invested to ensure our teams are present in the Middle East and Africa region to best understand local market conditions and developments. That connectivity is integral to building the right solutions for our customers.

 Is finance availability directly correlated to the visibility of a particular airline or country? What about the role of local financiers?

Rose: There is much to be said for airlines who maintain interaction with local and international banks to leverage the best of both worlds. We have seen first-hand the value of on-boarding local institutions to fund solutions often in conjunction with international banking groups. It is well noted that longer term financing in US dollars can exert additional stress on local and regional banks. However, there is unquestionably a part-to-played by these financial institutions in the shorter tenor tranches of aircraft financing, notably PDPs and mezzanine facilities. Second, when international banks are able to fund in local currencies, due to a long established presence in a particular jurisdiction and an accumulation of revenue denominated in local currency, it provides availability that stimulates competition and bodes well for the price of financing in the local market.

 What are your thoughts on a pan continental leasing platform?

Muhumuza: Lessors are very important to aircraft finance and the number of aircraft under lease has grown exponentially since 1980. While the vision of a body that is wholly dedicated to the financing of aircraft on the African continent merits further investment and discussion, there are many capable players in the aviation financing market today. The industry should continue to use existing solutions while exploring new options that could accelerate growth of the aviation market. BCC certainly sees the benefit of multiple institutions, coordinating their combined capabilities to bring capital and solutions to airlines that are the lifeblood of the African continent. The main benefit of such a leasing platform would be to counter the effects of dollar denominated payments, especially in those airlines that generate revenue in local currencies which can be prone to fluctuation against the U.S. dollar.

Also, a leasing platform in which participant financiers span across banks, multilaterals, OEM’s and lessors enhances the diversity of the financing product. This can create interest for greater participation by financiers who would not normally consider financing in these jurisdictions. 

Boeing Capital Current Aircraft Finance Market Outlook lessor analysis

Source: Boeing

 

Source: Boeing

What about cargo operations?

Edwards: The freighter market remains a bright spot during the pandemic. Yields have remained very high, and more freighters are flying than before the pandemic due to limited belly cargo capacity from passenger airplanes.

From a regional perspective, according to IATA, Africa cargo demand is growing and as of the first quarter of 2021, cargo operations are at 120% of normal volumes as consumers move toward e-commerce purchases and vaccinations are transported globally.

Stepping back, both financiers and investors have recognized the strength seen in the cargo market throughout the pandemic. In fact, freighters are the best performing aircraft class in terms of values during the pandemic, as the world realizes the importance of air cargo.

Revenue Tonne Kilometers have reflected a dramatic increase since the lean years prior to the pandemic and yields opportunities for all airlines but especially for the African airlines with its increasing exports and abundant resources much needed by an array of industrial sectors.

Any closing thoughts?

Rose: Overall, aviation is a growth business, with annual growth expected to be about 4% over the next 20 years. There is absolutely no question that the African aviation industry will continue to flourish and successfully adapt to a post pandemic marketplace. Aviation is an important driver of the economy and airlines are planning now for recovery and that includes working with financiers on creative solutions. Governments will also play an important role as they develop policies to best serve their respective economies and citizens. We expect that capital will continue to be routed into the sector by established players and as new entrants seek opportunities during the industry’s recovery.

Boeing in Africa

Boeing’s heritage in Africa dates back nearly 75 years. Since the introduction of the jet airplane, Boeing planes have formed the backbone of the continent’s commercial fleet. With more than 60 airline customers operating about 460 Boeing airplanes throughout Africa, Boeing represents nearly 70% of the airplane market currently in service across the continent. Currently, Boeing has offices in Johannesburg, South Africa, and Nairobi, Kenya, in addition to field service representatives with commercial customers across the continent. Boeing Capital Corporation is a global provider of financing solutions for Boeing customers.

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Addressing Gender Equity in Aviation

The aviation industry is one of the least-balanced when it comes to gender, especially at the technical skills and top leadership level. Often, women are under-represented in many areas of aviation, with the largest gaps in technical, operations and leadership positions. Women account for just about 5% of professional pilots and 3% of airline CEOs around the world according to the International Society of Women Airline Pilots (ISWAP). A 2018 IATA global survey affirmed that women CEOs in aviation represent only 3% compared to 12% of women CEOs in other industries. The survey ranks Africa in third place alongside South America with 8% of executive roles held by women (see graph below).

While the gender in-balance cuts across all regions, the situation seems to be improving across the board. In Africa, the industry boasts of about 5 women CEOs in airlines and 3 Director Generals of Civil Aviation Authorities. In the cockpit and technical areas however, the numbers in Africa remain as depressed as elsewhere. Some airlines are however making better progress at recruiting women pilots and technicians. Ethiopian Airlines has over 30 female pilots, 6 of them captains while Kenya airways has 31 female pilots representing 8% of the cockpit crew. It is however alleged that women have to work themselves much harder than their male counterparts to prove they are just as capable.

It is important to note that gender equality is not just about the large and obvious disparity in the absolute numbers of men versus women at the workplace. In line with the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, it also entails non-discrimination, guaranteeing equal pay for equal work and merit-based promotion.

 

With these skewed statistics, aviation remains one of the professions where gender equality is far from being realized. Whether by design or default, the majority of women working in the air transport industry are cabin or ground crew, customer service personnel and receptionists. On the contrary, men dominate in the cockpit, engineering, technical and managerial areas.

 

 

The obstacles

The origin of pilots from the military, where women were excluded for several decades coupled with the reluctance of some airlines to recruit women pilots are two historic reasons for the low number of women in the cockpit. In addition, the difficulty of combining family life and professional life for technical and C-level women in aviation can be daunting, not to mention the regular rigorous professional training for cockpit crew.

While the above may just be excuses today, the real obstacle is lack of awareness. Many women and girls may not be aware of the career opportunities open to them in aviation. Indeed, fewer women pursue STEM-based courses in school thus limiting their chances during cadet recruitment for technical jobs.

It is also undeniable that aspiring female leaders often face bias and stereotyping when vying for positions. For instance, while compassion and empathy are typically viewed as feminine traits, competitiveness, assertiveness and confidence are often associated with men. Female leaders that exhibit some of the “assumed” male traits are often viewed unfavourably. But probably most important, is the inadequate female role models at the highest corporate level to provide the coaching and grooming future female leaders need.

In light of the importance of the subject of gender equity in aviation, the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), in partnership with Collins Aerospace staged a 2-day conference on 19-20 October 2021. The objective of the conference was to facilitate dialogue, share information, experiences and best practices to attain gender diversity and youth development in aviation. The conference was held in virtual format under the theme: “Women and Youth Development in Aviation for a Sustainable Future”. The conference provided an ideal forum for air transport industry stakeholders to take stock of the trends, deliberate on feasible solutions to bridge the gender gap and develop young aviation professionals for the sustainability of the air transport sector.

 Industry Call to Action

The need to improve gender balance in aviation is not new. In 2016, ICAO sent out a strong signal in favor of gender equality in the aviation sector by adopting Assembly Resolution A39-30, comprising a programme of tangible gender equality measures. ICAO underscored the need for gender parity in order to make aviation more efficient and enable it better cope with the rapid expansion. According to the former Secretary-General of the ICAO, Dr. Fang Liu, “Air transport must address head-on why women are still under-represented in the majority of the technical and executive positions in aviation.” One renowned leader of Africa aviation, Dr. Harold Demuren (former DG NCAA) once remarked that, Africa aviation could address part of its brain drain challenge by employing more women to technical and managerial positions. In his view, while women tend to be stable at the workplace for longer, men keep chasing greener pasture to wherever they can find it.

In keeping with the saying that “if you want to bring change, be the change,” IATA in 2019 launched 25by2025, a laudable voluntary industry-wide initiative, focused on improving female representation to  25% by the year 2025 in both technical and managerial levels in the industry. This initiative re-ignites the debate on women’s role in aviation and the need to provide them with opportunities to bring out their full potential. IATA has committed to monitor, track and report the progress towards achieving this goal.

AFRAA-Collins Aerospace conference on Women and Youth Development in Aviation for a Sustainable Future made the following call to action to the industry to bridge the gender diversity gap:

  1. Training
  1. Empowerment of women in aviation through training.
  2. Job and career fairs for women, youth and those with disabilities.
  3. Subsidies in training to facilitating access to learning and education
  4. Continuous learning and adoption of online training for skilling and re-skilling.

 

  1. Collaboration across the industry
  1. Call to all African airlines to sign up for the IATA 25by2025 initiative.
  2. Events and dialogue among stakeholders for collaborative measures on women empowerment in aviation.

 

  1. Leadership and policy actions
  1. Gender diversity commitment at Board and leadership level.
  2. Introduction and implementation of gender inclusivity programmes.
  3. Deliberate policies on women empowerment at State level and at organisation level.
  4. Enhancement of mentorship programmes.

 

What should women do at an individual level?

To effectively position themselves for more senior roles, women should adopt some important habits used by men to raise their profile and get ahead. One of the most important steps aspiring women leaders should adopt is to put themselves forward for challenging roles which they may not feel completely competent to assume or well-prepared for. They should proactively manage their careers by mapping out their long-term aspirations and goals and volunteering themselves to more challenge roles rather than wait to be assigned. They must know that communicating the value they bring to the company and actively advocating for themselves is key in a career build-up to the C-suite.

Where they exist, women should take advantage of formal gender diversity programmes within the company and endeavor to build personal networks of advisers within and outside the organisation. Joining networking associations that promote the advancement of women in the aviation is important. Organisations such as the International Aviation Women’s Association; Women in Aviation Africa and Ninety-Nines (a female pilot association with regional chapters aimed at promoting flying as a career choice to young women) are good grooming platforms for young, determined women.

Conclusion

Besides the actions that women should take and mentoring and support from internal and external sources, improving the environment for gender equality must involve a cultural change at the highest corporate levels. Boards must be outspoken advocates for diversity and companies must develop clear policy guidelines on how to recruit, train, empower and retain more women at the technical and managerial level. Real change can only take place when the entire leadership is on board. Holding the organisation and individual leaders accountable for gender targets can be a powerful tool for change.

Finally, if collectively the aviation industry wants change, it must define what gender equality would look like, outline how that will be achieved and commit the resources to the projects that will deliver the expected results. The more specific the roadmap, the more likely gender equality targets will be achieved.

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Press Release – AFRAA Secretary General Receives Leadership Changemaker Award

The African Airlines Association (AFRAA) Secretary General, AFRAA, Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé, today has received the Leadership Changemaker Award recognition by Aviators Africa.

The Award was presented at the Aviators Africa Tower Award ceremony that took place at the 3rd Aviation Leadership CEOs Forum on 27 October 2021. The event was attended by aviation executives and industry leaders across Africa and beyond with the objective of changing the narrative around decision and policy making in Africa.

Speaking at the award ceremony, Mr. Berthé said: “Leadership is most successful when it relies on a good team. I dedicate this Award to the Executive Committee of AFRAA, the members of the Association and the AFRAA Secretariat team, in appreciation of their valuable support to my efforts since at the helm of AFRAA which have culminated to being ranked as a corporate leader in the African aviation industry.”

“This Award further emphasizes AFRAA’s leadership to represent and serve African airlines as we work closely with our members, partners, industry organizations, governments and stakeholders,” he added.

The Changemaker Award category was presented to individuals who have contributed immensely to the growth of African Aviation. This is in a bid to foster new thinking and promote healthy competition, originality, and creativity, for sustainable growth in the sector.

The Tower Awards recognise, celebrate, and honour excellence as well as sustainability within the African Aviation sector. the Tower Awards are positioned to be the foremost annual aviation event where airlines, airports, and the aviation value chain are celebrated in Africa.

The awardees will be inducted into Aviators Africa hall of fame.

About    AFRAA

The African Airlines Association, also known by its acronym AFRAA, is a trade association of airlines from the member states of the African Union (AU). Founded in Accra, Ghana, in April 1968, and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, AFRAA’s mission is to promote, serve African Airlines and champion Africa’s aviation industry. The Association envisions a sustainable, interconnected and affordable Air Transport industry in Africa where African Airlines become key players and drivers to African economic development.

 AFRAA membership of 46 airlines cuts across the entire continent and includes all the major intercontinental African operators. The Association members represent over 85% of total international traffic carried by African airlines. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

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AFRAA’s 53rd Annual General Assembly and Summit, 16 – 17 November 2021

The 53rd AFRAA AGA will take place from 16-17 November 2021 in virtual format at the kind invitation of TAAG Angola Airlines – the President of the Association. Themed: “Flightpath to Africa’s resilient travel ecosystem”, air transport leaders and decision makers will discuss the roadmap for a successful restart and recovery of the air transport industry.

We would have loved to stage an in-person event in partnership with TAAG Angola Airlines and stakeholders in the Republic of Angola as had been planned. However, in light of travel restrictions and slow pace of vaccination roll-out in Africa, the prevailing uncertainties will not be ideal for an in-person conference of the magnitude of the AFRAA AGA. We endeavor to create a memorable and enabling virtual experience for the air transport fraternity to meet and network.

In addition to the conference segment, there will be exhibition of products, solutions and latest technologies in aviation by reputable service providers from across the world through the virtual platform.

Registration: To participate in this event, kindly register in advance for the AGA through this link: https://cvent.me/AgWmVB. Following registration completion, an email with the link to access the platform will be sent to you.

AGA Programme of events and 2021 Aeropolitical Forum: The programme of events can be accessed via the webpage: https://cvent.me/AgWmVB. After the conclusion of the 53rd AGA, the African Air Industry Group (AAIG) will hold the Aeropolitical Forum on Thursday 18 November 2021.

AFRAA continues to support the industry in the restart and journey to recovery. We remain united with all our members, partners and industry stakeholders during these unprecedented times. We look forward to your participation at an exciting virtual edition of the 53rd AFRAA AGA in November 2021.

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AFRAA and Lufthansa Consulting Stage a virtual Workshop on Strategies to Bring Back the Customer

AFRAA in partnership with LH Consulting held a virtual workshop on the theme: “Bringing Back the Customer: Customer Experience and Trends” on 07 October 2021.

The Workshop gave expert insights and case-study experience on how airlines can enhance their customer experience strategy so as to effectively bring back the customer. The aviation sector is collectively suffering from the Covid19 pandemic. An effective customer experience strategy and digitalization will be essential drivers for airline recovery. The Workshop:

  1. Provided insights into the Lufthansa Consulting trend radar and recent customer experience trend study 2021;
  2. Shared expert opinion on the application of international market trends on the African market through interactive discussions on commercial and digital passenger use cases;
  3. Discussed current traveler needs and evaluate improvements on commercial performance.

The event presentations and recording can be accessed via the link:

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AFRAA and Sabre Stage a Workshop on Partnering for Digital Transformation – 21 September, 2021

AFRAA, in collaboration with Sabre held a virtual Workshop on 21 September 2021 on the theme: “Partnering for Digital Transformation”.

Airlines have an array of technology necessary to run their businesses, such as passenger services, e-commerce, pricing, revenue management, aircraft movement, operations- and airport management systems. In the digital age, the airline enterprise must become connected to uncover intelligent insights and take relevant action. Airlines obtained expert insights and case-study experience on how to enhance their data strategy so as to cost-effectively access the right information at the right time and in the right places.

The Workshop shared how advances in technology can play a key role in digital transformation and shared insights on how airlines can continue to achieve digital transformation. The workshop also discussed how technology enables organizations to simplify and enrich customer experiences, break down organizational silos and automate business processes.

Sabre experts shared insights on the following area: 

  • How airlines can respond proactively and quickly to events, through digital transformation
  • How airlines can share data across systems to drive customer centric decisions
  • How the open airline agility platform can help airlines get visibility into their data and achieve consistent and automated business outcomes across the airline.
  • How technology enables organizations to simplify and enrich customer experiences, break down organizational silos and automate business processes.
  • How airlines can continue to achieve digital transformation.
  • Sabre’s tools for democratizing and activating data.

 

Google Cloud Platform shared insights on the following areas:

  • How to accelerate your digital transformation journey with Google Cloud
  • How Google Cloud can accelerate your organisation’s ability to digitally transform and reimagine your business through data-powered innovation. With some airline examples provided.

Ethiopian Airlines presentation covered

  • The value of Intelligence Exchange (IX) for Ethiopian Airlines
  • How ET positioned Intelligence Exchange (IX) as the core for innovation of various initiatives, especially to quickly adopt technology and address business trends related to customer experience and operational excellence.

The event presentations and recording can be accessed via the link

Address

AFRAA Building, Red Cross Road, off Popo Road which is Off Mombasa Road in South C.
P. O. Box 20116, Nairobi ,00200 Kenya

Call Us

+254-20-2320144 +254-20-2320148

Send us an email

afraa@afraa.org

Mission: To promote, serve African airlines and champion Africa’s aviation industry.

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