Mr. Abderahmane Berthé, Secretary General of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) participated in a panel session at the 2024 ACI AFRICA Regional conference in Cairo, Egypt on 26 Feb on the theme: “Unlocking the Potential of Aviation in Africa”.

Aviation is a core enabler of economic growth and development in Africa, connecting countries, people and goods with enhanced air connectivity, facilitating tourism and trade, and contributing to the social wellbeing and education of the communities. The panel session will examine why the aviation sector in Africa is yet to reap these benefits, being hampered by several systemic factors, including geopolitical and internal political situations, protectionism, and other restrictive policies and practices.

Mr. Berthé made emphasis on addressing the following key issues to unlock the potential of Aviation in Africa

• Low income and low purchasing power of African citizens
• High cost of operations / High Fares / Affordability
  • Fuel: globally, 25% average operating costs; Africa 30-40%.
  • Taxes, charges and fees: higher compared to other regions
• Market access restrictions Many African states still deny traffic rights to African Airlines, affecting Intra-Africa connectivity.
• Ease of visa restrictions
  • – 50% of travelers need a visa before travelling
• Release of blocked funds impacting airlines’ performance

In his intervention, Mr. Berthé further elaborated the status updates on the roadmap implementation of the first African aviation industry laboratory for the sustainability of air transport in Africa that was hosted by AFRAA in 2022.

Aviation industry stakeholders who developed the roadmap for the sustainability of the African air transport industry committed to coordinate efforts to:

1. Increase the number of fifth freedom city pairs in Africa to enhance intra-African connectivity.
2. Develop guidelines and economic regulatory framework for rationalization of taxes, charges, and fees.
3. Achieve competitive and affordable air travel to boost trade and tourism in Africa.
4. Reduce the taxes on fuel and abolish custom duties on spare parts and aircraft in line with the relevant provisions of the ICAO Convention.
5. Streamline and automate the flight permits acquisition processes across Civil Aviation Authorities (CAAs).
6. Boost flight operation efficiency in African airspace to attain productivity gains for airlines and air navigation service providers.

Traction has been made with tangible outcomes reported on the implementation of the Free Routing Airspace in Africa ongoing trials and the increase of 5^th freedom city-pars within Africa from 14.5% to 19% as at 2023.

The panel comprised of the following panelists and was moderated by Mr. Emanuel Chaves, President, ACI Africa.

1. Abderahmane Berthé, Secretary General, African Airlines Association (AFRAA)
2. Olivier Baric, Aviation Consultant
3. Mohamed Fala, President of El-Nakhil Tours Company
4. Jihad Boueri, Vice President, Transformation, SITA, Middle East & Africa
5. Mohamed Elsherbeiny, General Manager, International Offices Department – Egyptian Tourism Authority

Airline Performance: Since November 2023, traffic carried by African airlines exceeded 2019 level. In January 2024, African airlines RPKs where 2.06% above the level of the same month in 2019 while ASKs where 7.1% above.

According to AFRAA estimates, African airlines will carry around 98 million passengers in 2024.

Regarding cargo, 149.6 million Kgs moved to/from Africa in November 2023, among which African airlines represented 30.8%.

At some major African airports (Johannesburg, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Lusaka, Cairo, Casablanca, Abidjan and Lagos), intra-Africa connectivity reached or exceeded pre-Covid level since December 2022.

2023 saw an increase in airline revenues and the narrowing of revenue gap compared to 2022. The full year 2023 revenue shortfall of African airlines was US$ 1 billion, compared to 2019 full year.

Jet A1 price continues to fluctuate marginally from week to week. The global average jet A1 price ended the week of 19 Jan 2024 up 2% at $108.92/bbl.

Regulatory/Industry Affairs

Somalia: Somalia has taken back control of its airspace management from Nairobi where it was airspace control was reassigned in 2018, reflecting its commitment to sovereignty and self-governance. The transition of Somalia’s airspace from Class G to Class A marks a significant milestone in the country’s aviation sector. The class upgrade means Somalia will now provide Air Traffic Control Services, a crucial step in enhancing safety and operational efficiency.

Zambia has adopted the use of electronic cargo manifests, a forward-looking approach aimed at modernizing cargo processing and aligning with international trade standards. The move will expedite cargo handling processes, foster smoother operations, and support the objectives of the trade facilitation agreements.

A similar digitization move in Cameroon has seen the innovative use of a “Customs Cmr” or “Douane Cmr” mobile app in air passenger processing. This will streamline customs procedures and embraces digital transformation in passenger handling. The result will be efficiency and convenience for both passengers and customs authorities.

Tunisia increased tourism tax for economy and business class travelers to enhance revenue generation for the tourism sector. The increase which was without consultation with industry stakeholders could negatively affect the anticipated tourist arrivals in the country.

On a positive note, Tunisia has deposited its instruments of ratification of the Montreal Protocol 2014 (MP14) with the effective date of Jan 2024.  Tunisia has become the 47^th party to MP14 which addresses jurisdictional gaps that allow unruly and disruptive passengers to avoid prosecution AFRAA encourages all African states to ratify this protocol as a deterrent to unruly behavior on flights and at airports.

In Jan 2024 a meeting was held in Cologne to address challenges related to GPS spoofing. The event emphasized the importance of pilot training highlighted ongoing commitment of the global aviation community to addressing emerging threats posed by spoofing. Balancing the adoption of newer technologies with considerations for evolving security challenges remains a critical aspect of ensuring the resilience and sustainability of the aviation sector. Collaboration and information-sharing are essential to navigating the complexities of the current aviation landscape.

 

[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 54 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.

 

With the overall objective to boost intra-Africa traffic and connectivity to accelerate the implementation of SAATM, AFRAA joined key industry stakeholders at the 7^th meeting of the Joint Prioritized Action Plan (JPAP) for operationalization of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM). The meeting, which was organized by AFCAC, took place in Nairobi – Kenya on 09 February 2024. AFRAA shared highlight actions on SAATM progress and the 2024 plan of activities at the meeting on:

• Capacity building
• Safety
• Free Routing Airspace
• Advocacy and lobbying
• Roadmap action of the laboratory on Sustainability of air transport industry

 

Overall, SAATM represents a strategic initiative aimed at transforming the aviation landscape in Africa, fostering greater regional integration, and unlocking the economic potential associated with improved air connectivity.

After 5 years of official launching SAATM, there is still very little commitment by some of the 37 signatory States to for the full liberalization of aviation market on the continent including several other barriers that prevent the successful implementation of SAATM on the continent, such as lack of prioritization of aviation by Governments, policy of protectionism, high fees and taxes, failure to facilitate/opening visas between countries, amongst several others.

The purpose of the JPAP is for Africa’s aviation industry stakeholders to identify and align the activities to support SAATM, namely:

• Ensuring members of the SAATM fully implement the immediate measures to effectively operationalize the Single African Air Transport Market as early as possible;
• Elaborating and executing an effective advocacy and communication strategy for more states to join the SAATM;
• Resource mobilization and strengthening of the capacity of the African Civil Aviation Commission to effectively perform its functions as the Executing Agency of the Yamoussoukro Decision;
• Seeking technical assistance for Member States to improve the level of aviation safety and security to meet the minimum requirements of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) and attain the global average of effective implementation level; and
• Ensuring African airlines enhance their cooperation in the operation of the Single African Air Transport Market.

Since the creation of JPAP in 2018, annual meetings are held to coordinate actions and align on tangible results that have been achieved. The 7^th JPAP meeting achieved the following objectives:

1. Obtained the progress report of implementation of the 2023 SAATM Prioritised Joint Action Plan;
2. Reinforced commitment of stakeholders in supporting the development and sustainability of African Civil Aviation industry;
3. Updated 2024 SAATM Prioritised Joint Action Plan that is aligned with the Recommendations of the SAATM-PIP Airshows and the 2024 Workplan; and
4. Updated the adopted mechanism for monitoring, evaluation and reporting of the Joint Prioritised Action Plan;

 

Stakeholders present at the meeting included:

• Representative of the SAATM Champion
• Representative of the Chairperson of the SAATM Ministerial Working Group
• African Union Commission (AUC)
• African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC)
• Regional Economic Communities (RECs)
• African Airlines Association (AFRAA)
• United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA)
• African Development Bank (AfDB)
• ICAO – HQ, WACAF, ESAF and MID Regional Offices and EURNAT;
• International Air Transport Association (IATA)
• Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA)
• European Union/EASA;
• Aircraft Manufacturers (Boeing)
• Air Navigation Services Providers

Regional Safety Oversight Organizations (RSOOs) and Regional Aircraft Accident Incident Investigation Organizations (RAIOs)

November 19-21 2023, Kampala, Republic of Uganda – The African Airlines Association (AFRAA) and Uganda Airlines concluded the 55^th Annual General Assembly (AGA) in Kampala, Uganda. The event was held under the High Patronage of the Government of Uganda and officiated by H.E Jessica Rose Epel Alupo, Vice President of the Republic of Uganda.

The Assembly, which brought together 569 delegates from 49 countries under the theme “Strides to Transform Aviation for Development”, challenged African airlines and air transport stakeholders with new thinking on initiatives and strategies that will drive the sustainability of the air transport sector to realise its potential. Among others, the Assembly recommendations were made on the following key areas:

1. The Transformational value of the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) to African airlines.
2. Collaborative and effective attainment of the Aviation Net Zero Roadmap

• Innovation initiatives in Africa for sustainable aviation in the continent

1. Synergies for the development of intra-Africa tourism and air travel
2. Gender diversity and inclusivity actions to shape the future of aviation in Africa

H.E Jessica Rose Epel Alupo – the Chief Guest, in her opening address, highlighted that Air Transport as the business of freedom, is a critical enabler of economic and social integration which Africa cannot do without because the rail and road infrastructure lack due coverage for interstate movement. “As Africa pursues the goal of continental integration, it will be important to focus on growing Air transport for ease of intra-Africa connectivity.” She stated.

“Air connectivity has become central to our development agenda, and the national carrier is seen as an extension of national infrastructure. We are committed to investing in the flag carrier and to facilitate the airline’s expansion within Africa, while also providing those vital air bridges between the continent and the rest of the world. For that reason, we are proactive in driving Africa’s integration agenda and committed to removing any obstacles that might obstruct this goal in way.” H.E Jessica Rose Epel Alupo added.

In her welcome address, Ms. Jennifer Bamuturaki, the 2023 President of AFRAA and CEO of Uganda Airlines took stock of the priorities for African air transport during the period of her Presidency of the Association, notably on: smart regulation to support liberalization and intra-Africa connectivity, pathways for increased partnerships and collaboration within the continent and promotion of sustainable operations of African airlines. She noted the positive traction on initiatives to open up the continent’s aviation and improve connectivity. “At least two-thirds of African states have signed up to SAATM and are at different stages of implementation. Here in Uganda, internal conversations about joining SAATM have started.” she stated.

Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé, AFRAA Secretary General, expressed commitment and determination of AFRAA to overcome the challenges facing the air transport industry, to support the post-COVID resumption and foster a resilient Air Transport system in Africa. “As our industry has almost recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic, it provides an opportunity for cooperation and collaboration to develop a sustainable perspective for the airline industry. At AFRAA, we will keep our mission to promote and serve African airlines and champion Africa’s aviation industry.” he stated.

 “Better Skies for Africa remains the pillar of all our actions.” Mr. Berthé concluded.

Appointment of officersThe 55^th AFRAA AGA elected LAM Mozambique as the Chairman of the Executive Committee while Kenya Airways was elected as first Vice Chairman and Tunisair as second Vice Chairman. The AFRAA Executive Committee has oversight responsibility for the Association.

 Host of the 56^th AGA

The 55^th AFRAA AGA elected EgyptAir as the President of the Association. EgyptAir will host the 56^th AGA in Egypt from in November 2024.

 AFRAA CEOs retreat

As part of the pre-AGA activities, AFRAA staged the first-ever AFRAA CEOs retreat on 19 November 2023. The CEOs retreat is an initiative recommended by the AFRAA Executive Committee to bring together member airline Leadership Teams to brainstorm on the Association’s priorities, work plan, projects and specific dynamics of the air transport industry that will enhance the Association to play its critical role in the industry. The CEOs retreat which will be held on an annual basis, made recommendations for AFRAA on: safety, intra-African connectivity and route development, sustainability of African Airlines and AFRAA joint projects.

New Members and Partners

The Association welcomed the following new Members that joined in 2023:

• Eswatini Air (Associate Membership)
• Ibom Airlines (Full Membership)
• MedSky Airways (Associate Membership)
• Zambia Airways Ltd (Associate Membership)
• Airlink (Pty) Limited (Full Membership)
• Chapman Freeborn Airchartering Ltd – (Full Partnership)
• TP Connects (Full Partnership)

Highlights from the Secretary General’s State of the Industry report

Airline performance: The average Passenger Load Factor recorded in Africa for 2022 was 71.6%, a 10.6% increase compared to 2021. However, this is 7% less than the global average. The mismatch between capacity and demand and the limited commercial cooperation between local carriers may explain this low performance in terms of load factor in Africa.

In terms of passengers carried, during the 3^rd quarter of 2023, African airlines reached the number of RPKs for the same period in 2019. AFRAA estimates the number of passengers in 2023 to be 85 million, 89% of the 95.6 million in 2019. Notably, in 2023, Northern Africa accounts for 39.5% of the total African traffic, followed by Central and West Africa at 21.7%, Southern Africa at 19.4% and Eastern Africa at 19.3.

 On cargo, according to World ACD, African Airlines represent an average of 30.6% in terms of cargo market share in 2023.

AFRAA estimates the revenue loss for 2022 at USD 3.5 billion, representing 20% of 2019 revenues. This will narrow down to USD 1 billion in 2023.

Jet fuel prices: Jet fuel prices are rising, reaching $123.46 as at the end of October 2023.  This trend of high fuel costs impacts fares and hinders air transport affordability for African citizens.

Safety: Promoting and enhancing safety is one of AFRAA’s priorities through collaboration. AFRAA and industry stakeholders are working towards improving safety standards in our continent. AFRAA is currently running with IATA and AFCAC a 3-year project, which aims to identify eligible airlines, conduct gap analyses, and recommend corrective actions to prepare those airlines for IOSA or ISSA certifications.

AFRAA priorities for 2024:

1. Safety first
2. Connectivity and route development
3. Air Transport sustainability
4. AFRAA 5-Year Strategic Plan

“The African continent must focus on aviation as a critical socio-economic development driver.

Cooperation, Collaboration and joint industry actions are essential in this process. AFRAA intends to play a pivotal role in navigating African airlines by charting a sustainable path in support of rejuvenating the continent’s aviation industry through specific support measures.” Mr. Berthé emphasized.

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 54 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.

 

 

Cairo, 14 November 2023: The African Airlines Association (AFRAA) and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) today in Cairo signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to concretize cooperation toward the development of a safe, reliable, efficient and environmentally sustainable air transport system in Africa.

Under the framework of the MoU, signed by Abderahmane Berthé, AFRAA’s Secretary General, and Kanayo Awani, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade Bank, at Afreximbank, AFRAA and Afreximbank will coordinate activities, joint projects and programmess, exchange of information and data, and best practices to facilitate the achievement of shared objectives.

The key areas of collaboration include:

1. Aviation safety and security
2. Environmental sustainability initiatives
3. Air transport liberalization – implementation of SAATM Joint Prioritised Action Plan
4. Economic sustainability of air transport – cost reduction, taxes and charges
5. Airline consolidation
6. Human capital development and capacity building
7. Facilitation of trade, business and tourism
8. Exchange of statistical data, information and best practices

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Berthé stated: “AFRAA and Afreximbank share a common goal to support a sustainable air transport system in Africa and thereby effectively contribute to the continent’s socio-economic development, trade and integration. Signing this MoU will facilitate the mobilization of necessary financial resources to undertake projects that will benefit African airlines.

“Traction on collaborative actions is on-course. For the first time in Africa, trials for the free routing flights became a reality on 02 November 2023, thanks to the funding by Afreximbank and technical support by aviation experts. Flights ET935 and KQ 508 operated safely outside the existing routes, directly from Addis Ababa to Abidjan and Nairobi to Accra, respectively. Implementing the Free Route Airspace (FRA) will annually bring significant cost savings to airlines, shorten travel times for passengers and put less CO2 emissions into the environment. The trials, which started in November 2023, will continue to provide critical data to accelerate the FRA implementation in the entire African Airspace, improving air navigation efficiency,” added Mr. Berthé.

Ms. Awani noted that AFRAA and Afreximbank shared a common goal of promoting the development of a safe, reliable and environmentally sustainable air transport system in Africa in order to effectively contribute to the continent’s socio-economic development, trade and integration. She welcomed the MoU and expressed the Bank’s pleasure at the successful free routing trials, saying that implementation of FRA in Africa will contribute towards ensuring an efficient aviation market to support intra-African trade and tourism which was critical to the full realisation of the objectives of the AfCFTA.

Ends

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 54 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.

About Afreximbank

African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra-and extra-African trade. For 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialization and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank is setting up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries to effectively participate in the AfCFTA. At the end of 2022, Afreximbank’s total assets and guarantees stood at over US$31 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$5.2 billion. The Bank disbursed more than US$86 billion between 2016 and 2022. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa1), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure, (together, “the Group”).

For more information, please visit: www.afreximbank.com

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AFRAA Secretary General – Mr Abderahmane Berthé, delivered a keynote address at the 53^rd Annual General Assembly of the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA).

He made a brief on the state of the airline industry highlighting traffic, connectivity and profitability performance of African airlines and articulated on AFRAA actions on blocked funds, affordability, environmental sustainability and Sustainable Aviation Fuels.

On traffic performance, as at  September 2023, the traffic exceeded the level of the same month in 2019 by reaching 101.4%. The traffic repartition for the first semester of 2023 was as follows:

• North Africa represented 40.1% of the total traffic, of which 17% is domestic, and 57% is directed to Europe.
• Central and West Africa represented 20.8% of the total traffic, of which 49% is domestic, and 43% of the non-domestic traffic is intra-Africa.
• Eastern Africa represented 18.7% of the total traffic, of which 45% is domestic, and 30% of the international traffic is directed to Europe.
• The Southern African region represented 20.4% of the total traffic, of which 64% is domestic. 50% of the non-domestic traffic is intra-African, mainly within the sub-region. 19% of the traffic is Intercontinental, of which 28% is directed to Europe.

In terms of connectivity, the total number of intercontinental routes operated by African airlines exceeded the pre-COVID levels since October 2022. In some major airports (Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Lusaka, Cairo, Abidjan, and Lomé), the intra-Africa connectivity has reached or exceeded the pre-Covid level since December 2022.

With regards to revenue losses attributed to Covid-19 impacts, Mr Berthé reported that the 2022 full-year cumulative airline revenue gap was US$3.5 billion for all African airlines compared to 2019. Though the full-year estimated revenue gap is yet to be computed, 2023 will be better.

In terms of cargo performance, he reported that the average market share of African Airlines per cargo origin was 30.6% Year-to-date for August 2023. East Africa comes first with 37%, followed by North Africa with 30%. The highest cargo traffic growth year on year is in North Africa, with 20% Year to date. For the southern African region, Mr Berthé reported that Cape Town and Harare were the top two airports in the region in terms of cargo traffic growth, year to date.

The issue of blocked funds in many countries is challenging for African airlines. The total blocked funds reported in September 2023 by eleven (11) AFRAA member airlines is approximately US$391.8. Mr Berthé informed the Assembly that AFRAA has established a Blocked Funds Task Force with some member airlines to engage with the concerned states to unlock the funds. “We call upon governments to consider Aviation as a priority sector and reduce blocked funds,” he stated.

In terms of connectivity, the level has exceeded the pre-Covid level. However, it still remains low in regard to the potential. 85% of flights are direct, and 15% are connecting flights. Only 21% of the direct flights are operated under the 5^th  freedom traffic rights. “This is a concern because, for many airlines, the 5^th freedom traffic can improve the routes’ profitability and intra-Africa connectivity.” Mr Berthé stated.

The global average GDP per capita in 2023 is $13,920. Twenty-five (25) African countries have a per capita income of less than $1,000, while only eight (8) have more than $5,000 per capita.

“A strong and consistent middle-class citizenry in the African continent is needed to boost intra-Africa traffic.” Mr Berthé stated. For a given average trip length, taxes excluded, ticket fares are more expensive in Africa. On average, ticket fares are twice and thrice higher than in Europe and Asia.

“With high fares and lower GDP per capita, air transport is not affordable for African citizens.” he added.

With regards to environmental sustainability, Mr Berthe reported that in 2021, aviation accounted for over 2% of global CO2 emissions. Aviation-related emissions have grown faster than road, rail, or shipping in recent decades.

Carbon emissions from commercial flights are set to triple by 2050 amid surging travel and freight demand. Nonetheless, emissions could be slashed through aircraft technology, operations efficiency, and alternative fuels.

“AFRAA members are committed to the global industry efforts towards the reduction of CO2 emissions and mitigating the impact of aviation on climate.” Mr Berthé added.

As the global Aviation industry focuses on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), Africa has an opportunity to act as a leader in feedstock production. However, there are concerns about the SAF production in volume, accessibility at airports, and cost, which is currently high. AFRAA is engaged to work with stakeholders on actions towards the 2050 Net Zero emissions goal.

Highlighting that the enhancement and promotion of safety are among AFRAA’s priorities, Mr Berthé stated that: “While we have the challenge of aviation professionals, our focus should also be on safety to sustain our business.”

He announced that AFRAA and Flight Safety Foundation (FSF) will launch the 1^st Africa Safety and Operations Summit on 15 May 2024, back-to-back with the Aviation Stakeholders Convention (ASC) in Addis Ababa hosted by Ethiopian Airlines.

“At AFRAA, we stand willing and ready to collaborate to transform African Aviation into a vibrant logistic service sustaining the economic development in Africa.” He concluded.

The event was hosted by TAAG Angolan Airlines under the theme “Possibilities from Realities.”

Release date: 07 September 2023

Airline Performance: In August 2023, traffic carried by African airlines reached 98.4% of the 2019 level. Domestic market share was estimated at 34%, intra-Africa at 29%, and intercontinental at 37%.

The total number of intercontinental routes operated by African airlines exceeded pre-COVID levels since October 2022. In some major airports (Johannesburg, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Lusaka, Cairo, Casablanca, Abidjan, and Lomé) intra-Africa connectivity has reached or exceeded pre-Covid level since December 2022.

2023 is witnessing a narrowing of the airline revenue gap attributed to Covid-19 compared to 2022. In the first 3 months of the year, African airlines missed the levels attained in a similar period in 2019 by US$0.3 billion. This is expected to further narrow in the second quarter to US$0.2 billion, according to AFRAA data. Though full-year estimated revenue gap is yet to be computed, it appears 2023 would be a better year compared to the prior year. The 2022 full-year cumulative airlines revenue gap was US$3.5 billion for all African airlines compared to 2019.

The Jet A1 price continues the upward trend, going up by over $22 in one month. The global weekly average jet fuel price during the week ending 25 August 2023 was up 2.9% at $126.37/bbl. In July, the average weekly price was $103.64/bbl.

Blocked Funds

Total blocked funds reported by six (6) airlines in Fifteen (15) countries (13 in Africa and 2 outside Africa) is approximately US$339.1 million at the end of March 2023. AFRAA has requested meetings with some central bank Governors and will soon meet them to agree on a solution to this recurrent problem as part of engagements to have the funds released.

Regulatory/Industry Affairs

Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations Update: Canada passed amendments to strengthen Air Passenger Protection Regulations, with the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) proposing changes for more stringent passenger compensation and complaints resolution processes. AFRAA urges airlines operating in Canada to familiarize themselves with the details of the passenger protection regulations to avoid failing victims.

Amendment 29 to ICAO Annex 9 on travel facilitation: The amendments to ICAO Annex 9 became necessary following the disruption to the aviation business during the Covid period. To avoid a repeat of the facilitation lapses that occurred at the time, Amendment 29 sought to introduce new guidelines on passenger name record (PNR) handling and health protocols while reinforcing the requirements for handling passengers, especially those with reduced mobility, hearing and visual disabilities.

The new public health standards updated requirements relating to aircraft and facility disinsection and disinfection. Details are available here: WHO disinfection Procedures.

On facilitation, the New Standards for transport of persons with disabilities outlines special assistance to persons with reduced mobility, hearing- and vision-impairment to enable them obtain flight service-related information in accessible formats. The amendment also required that designated pick-up, drop-off points for PWDs and access routes be clear with no obstacles and adequate provision of parking facilities for PWD closer to the terminal building.

Other amendments include:

• Advance notice of assistance required for persons with reduced mobility.
• Ensure that airport facilities and services are adapted to the needs of PWDs.
• Establish measures to ensure that procedures are in place to combat trafficking in persons.

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 51 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.

 

23 August 2023, Nairobi – Kenya: Aviation plays a crucial role in connecting people and facilitating economic growth; Africa stands out as the region with the greatest potential. The industry is estimated to support $63 billion in economic activity and 7.7 million jobs according to the Air Transport Action Group (ATAG). Amid the potential and opportunities for growth, the air transport sector in Africa faces various challenges that impact the delivery of safe, secure and efficient operations, as well as the competitiveness of Africa’s aviation market.

It is on this backdrop that on 22 August 2023, the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) Secretary General, Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé, and Mr. Kamil Alawadhi – International Air Transport Association (IATA) Regional Vice President Africa & Middle East inked a Letter of Intent for the renewal of the existing Memorandum of Cooperation between AFRAA and IATA. Abderahmane and Kamil further formalised a letter of reciprocal commitment for mutual support towards the six focus areas of Focus Africa initiatives and AFRAA initiatives such as the Aviation Stakeholders Convention (ASC) and the Africa Safety and Operations Summit.

The MoU, which was initially signed in 2018, provides a framework to synergise joint efforts by AFRAA and IATA to aid Africa’s economic growth through a safer, more connected and sustainable aviation industry. Under the MoU, IATA and AFRAA will work on a joint action plan based on the following main areas of cooperation:

1. Building airline resilience through capacity building activities;
2. Attainment of cost containment on user charges and taxes;
3. Enhancement of intra-African connectivity through supporting the implementation of the Single African Aar Transport Market (SAATM);
4. Reduction of carbon emissions in aviation, as aligned with ICAO’s strategy on Environment;
5. Various initiatives in safety, security and flight operations;
6. Passenger and baggage facilitation;
7. Training and commercial;
8. Events

“The renewal of the MoU between AFRAA and IATA is a noteworthy testament of the commitment of our two organizations to better serve the air transport industry and deliver our respective mandates for the African region. Through enhanced the collaboration, the MoU facilitates the realization of AFRAA and IATA’s common vision for the development of a safe, secure and sustainable aviation industry in Africa,” said Mr. Abderahmane Berthé, AFRAA’s Secretary General.

“Further collaboration on the AFRAA Aviation Stakeholders Convention (ASC) and the AFRAA Africa Safety and Operations Summit and the six focus areas of the Focus Africa initiative including: safety, infrastructure, connectivity, finance and distribution, sustainability and future skills will help unlock the economic opportunities that will drive the growth of the aviation industry across Africa. Together, we can make a difference and create a brighter future for the African aviation industry.” Mr. Berthé added.

Notes for Editors

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 51 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.

 

30 May, 2023 – Kampala – Uganda: At a colorful ceremony that was graced by the Minister of Transport of the Republic of Uganda – Hon. Gen. Katumba Wamala, AFRAA and Uganda Airlines officially launched the 55^th Annual General Assembly (AGA) & Summit of the Association.

The 55^th African Airlines Association (AFRAA) Annual General Assembly (AGA) and Summit will be held from 19-21 November 2023 at the Speke Resort in Entebbe, Uganda – The Pearl of Africa.  The AGA will be proudly hosted by Uganda Airlines under the high patronage of the Government of Uganda. The event is expected to attract about 500 high profile delegates from the aviation industry in Africa, Europe, Middle East, Asia and North America.

Speaking at the launch, AFRAA Secretary General, Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé stated: “AFRAA is excited to host the 55^th AGA in Uganda. This will give Uganda Airlines a unique opportunity to show case its profile and its developing role in African aviation. Uganda Airlines being a young and vibrant player in aviation industry in the Eastern African sub-region, staging the AGA at the airline’s home base and hub will be a great opportunity to achieve this objective. AFRAA looks forward to host the African air transport ecosystem stakeholders in Uganda for a memorable Assembly.”

In her speech, Ms. Jenifer Bamuturaki – Chief Executive Officer and AFRAA 2023 President said: “This year, Uganda Airlines pledges to open its doors of hospitality, warmth, and service to all delegates of the 55^th AFRAA-AGA. This will be no ordinary General Assembly; it will be exciting and engaging, with many learnings drawn from industry developments.”

“I believe that this year’s Annual General Assembly will embark on a journey to address these issues and fragility points that the industry grapples with. I also look forward to plenaries that will discuss industry action-based topics dear to my heart, like increasing safe spaces for women to thrive in aviation, creating optimism for the youth in the industry and beyond sustainability. The event will also bring together cross-industry players in Tourism, Regulation, and Taxation that impact the industry. Uganda Airlines is honoured to host the 55^th AFRAA Annual General Assembly as the official carrier.” She added.

The AFRAA AGA is the biggest aviation Summit in Africa and will be attended by Chairmen and CEOs from African airlines and decision makers from ICAO, IATA, AFCAC, civil aviation authorities, airport companies, air navigation services providers as well as aircraft and engine manufacturers, component suppliers, and many other service providers. The event will discuss issues on the development of air transport in Africa in general and development opportunities for African airlines in particular. Air transport in Africa is an economic bridge – linking people, goods and capital to markets and industries and integrating the vast continent.

In addition to statutory Assembly matters to be discussed, there will be an exhibition of products, solutions and the latest technologies in aviation by reputable service providers from across the world. Further, the AGA also avails quality time and opportunity for networking and business meetings among African airlines, industry partners and service providers.

Air transport leaders and decision-makers will adopt industry resolutions that will set a roadmap for transformation and the economic development of air transport in Africa at the Assembly.

Delegates can register and access more information about the event through the dedicated website: https://aga55.afraa.org/

About AFRAA

The African Airlines Association, also known by its acronym AFRAA, is the leading 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 50 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.

About Uganda Airlines

• Uganda Airlines is Uganda’s flagship national passenger and cargo carrier that operates scheduled air transportation services in Africa and near-international markets. The Airline was operationalized in 2019.
• Our Vision: To be the Airline of Choice for The Business and Leisure Traveller.
• For more information about the Company, visit: https://ugandairlines.com or Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.