The Strategy Forum at the fifth annual Routes Africa in Swaziland came to a close with a clear message about the strength and growth of passenger and cargo traffic to and within Africa, but there also were strong comments on the need to liberalise, reduce government interference and work together. Nick Fadugba, secretary general of African Airlines Association (AFRAA), delivered a hard-hitting address, urging African governments to act now on the issue of liberalisation and to strive for better co-operation between stakeholders. He pointed out that mega carrier groupings are emerging in the EU and North America and said African airlines could not compete with them. “There is inadequate co-operation between civil aviation authorities, airports, tourism authorities and governments. Without co-operation, progress will not happen.”
“I urge African airlines to come together and consolidate, so they can compete effectively. Without a stable and strong air transport system it will be difficult to promote sustainable economic growth and development in Africa.”
He added: “Network opportunities in Africa remain untapped, and non-Africans are making money here. In parts of Africa there is an unwillingness to implement the Yamoussoukro Agreement, and if African countries and civil aviation authorities will not implement a legally binding instrument of the African Union, then we only have ourselves to blame.”
The presentations showed how, despite constraints, Africans are still being urged to see the potential in the continent and to find solutions to these particular issues.
Jorge Abando, regional marketing manager of Bombardier, clearly illustrated the huge potential for new city pairs. He demonstrated that according to Bombardier’s own studies, based on a completely unconstrained bilateral environment, there is potential for 195 new non-stop routes in Africa. Abando concluded by saying: “It is a less liberal environment, but there are opportunities to expand.”
The Strategy Forum at the fifth annual Routes Africa in Swaziland came to a close with a clear message about the strength and growth of passenger and cargo traffic to and within Africa, but there also were strong comments on the need to liberalise, reduce government interference and work together. Nick Fadugba, secretary general of African Airlines Association (AFRAA), delivered a hard-hitting address, urging African governments to act now on the issue of liberalisation and to strive for better co-operation between stakeholders. He pointed out that mega carrier groupings are emerging in the EU and North America and said African airlines could not compete with them. “There is inadequate co-operation between civil aviation authorities, airports, tourism authorities and governments. Without co-operation, progress will not happen.”
“I urge African airlines to come together and consolidate, so they can compete effectively. Without a stable and strong air transport system it will be difficult to promote sustainable economic growth and development in Africa.”
He added: “Network opportunities in Africa remain untapped, and non-Africans are making money here. In parts of Africa there is an unwillingness to implement the Yamoussoukro Agreement, and if African countries and civil aviation authorities will not implement a legally binding instrument of the African Union, then we only have ourselves to blame.”
The presentations showed how, despite constraints, Africans are still being urged to see the potential in the continent and to find solutions to these particular issues.
Jorge Abando, regional marketing manager of Bombardier, clearly illustrated the huge potential for new city pairs. He demonstrated that according to Bombardier’s own studies, based on a completely unconstrained bilateral environment, there is potential for 195 new non-stop routes in Africa. Abando concluded by saying: “It is a less liberal environment, but there are opportunities to expand.”
