Speaking at AASA’s 55th Annual General Assembly in Lusaka, Chief Executive Officer Aaron Munetsi said the continent’s aviation industry must shift from being underestimated to demonstrating global capability.

“For too long, African aviation has been underestimated — especially by ourselves,” said Munetsi. “Africa is home to 1.4 billion people, the world’s youngest population and a growing middle class, yet with just 2.2% of global air transport market share, we are still idling on the runway.”

Restoring Confidence in Africa’s Skies

Munetsi outlined AASA’s multi-faceted strategy to strengthen the continent’s air transport ecosystem:

• Safety and Standards: Harmonising oversight and mutual recognition of licences and certifications to support the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and improve operational efficiency.
• Supply Chain: Addressing the global shortage of aircraft and parts that has led to older, less efficient fleets and an additional US$220 million in costs for African airlines this year.
• Financial Sustainability: Ensuring state-owned airlines are managed with accountability, innovation and fiscal discipline to achieve stronger performance.
• Environmental Sustainability: Encouraging investment in locally produced sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and optimising procedures to reduce fuel burn and emissions.
• People and Skills: Investing in training and inclusion to empower Africa’s youth, women and innovators.

Munetsi emphasised that outdated protectionist policies and excessive taxation continue to stifle growth.

“Aviation is not a luxury — it is an economic lifeline,” he said. “If governments genuinely want to democratise air transport, they should remove excessive charges and taxes that drive up ticket prices and make flying inaccessible to most Africans.”

He expressed concern over operational inefficiencies in South Africa, particularly the suspension of over 200 instrument flight procedures by Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS), describing the situation as an “economic disaster” that demands urgent action.

AASA further urged governments to modernise border and customs systems, relax restrictive visa regimes, and release blocked airline funds in countries such as Mozambique.

“African aviation’s success depends on collaboration and shared responsibility,” Munetsi concluded. “It’s time to stop talking and start improving. Only by working together can Africa’s aviation sector finally take off and become more than a two-percent player in the global market.”

About AASA

Established in 1970, the Airlines Association of Southern Africa represents 16 airline members and 41 associate members across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. The organisation engages on issues affecting policy, regulation, safety, and operational sustainability, and works closely with ICAO and IATA to advance regional aviation development.