The number of seats offered in the region increased by 12.6%, from 14.3 million in March 2019 to 16.1 million in March 2024, owing to the addition of new routes and increased frequencies. Over the same period, Available Seat Kilometers (ASKs) also exceeded the March 2019 level by 7.7%. African carriers accounted for 49.5% of the international capacity and 35.9% of the intercontinental capacity.

AFRAA estimates that passenger traffic carried by African operators in 2024 will reach about 98 million. Regarding capacity distribution between African and non-African operators on both regional and intercontinental routes, AFRAA estimates a split of 50.7% and 49.3% respectively. A more detailed breakdown of capacity solely on intercontinental routes reveals a significantly lower share of 35.7% for Africa compared to 64.3% for non-African operators.

Although continent-wide intra-African connectivity has exceeded pre-Covid levels since December 2022, major hubs such as Johannesburg and Casablanca have yet to reach their 2019 levels.

In line with traffic growth, African airlines are also experiencing improved revenue performance. AFRAA estimated revenue for January 2024 at US$1.83 billion, compared to US$1.56 billion in November 2023, indicating a revenue growth of 14.75%.

The global price of Jet A1 continues to fluctuate from week to week. The global average Jet A1 price at the end of the week of 22nd March 2024 increased by 1.1% to $109.08 per barrel.

Regulatory/Industry Affairs

ATNS in South Africa implemented revised Air Traffic Service Charges, effective May 1, 2024. These charges underwent review and approval by the regulator.

A proposed $20 per passenger fee at Kotoka International Airport (KIA) in Accra, Ghana, to cover airport maintenance works and baggage belt repairs without following due process, garnered condemnation from operators and the industry. While there is a need for investment in infrastructure to meet growing demand, AFRAA advocates strict adherence by all service providers to the stipulated ICAO principles contained in DOC9082. Following intervention by the Ghanaian parliament, levying of the proposed fee has been suspended.

Airplanes Africa Limited (AAL) has achieved a commendable feat by assembling the first Skyleader 600 aircraft in Tanzania. This achievement could signify the beginning of Africa’s venture into aircraft assembly and component manufacturing.

Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to signing the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) solemn commitment. If accomplished, this will bring the total to 39 African states committed to opening up their markets. Similarly, internal discussions are ongoing in Tanzania regarding their commitment to SAATM. If the two countries join, the East African Community (EAC) will boast a significant domestic market for air travel. Open skies will enhance intra-African connectivity, reduce airfares, stimulate air traffic and revenue growth across the continent, and create jobs.

Sierra Leone CAA’s Consumer Protection Unit has reached out to its ECOWAS partners in the Consumer Protection industry to harmonise positions to safeguard consumer interests in the civil aviation sub-region. Striking a balance between protecting passenger rights and ensuring sustainable air services is crucial for a healthy aviation industry.

Ecuador has made positive strides with a new Tourism Law that eliminates currency repatriation tax and aims to reduce the 5% jet fuel tax by 1% annually over the next 5 years. The African Continent could emulate Ecuador’s gradual tax reduction model to alleviate some of the burdensome taxes hindering aviation development on the continent.

ICAO and the Aviation Working Group (AWG) are collaborating to enhance cross-border aircraft transferability by promoting compliance with the Cape Town Convention. This collaboration will improve efficiency and safety in the aircraft leasing and financing sector, and AFRAA commends the two organisations for this initiative.