Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, is set to become the bustling hub of aviation discussions as the ninth edition of Routes Africa kicks off this weekend. From June 22nd to June 24th, the event will converge key players in the aviation industry, including airports, airlines, tourism authorities, policymakers, and stakeholders, all with a common objective: fostering the growth of new air services across Africa.
Hosted by the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe, the prestigious gathering will unfold at the Elephant Hills Hotel and Resort, offering a platform for strategic discourse and collaboration aimed at enhancing air connectivity within the continent and beyond.
Anticipation runs high as over 350 delegates representing a diverse array of entities are expected to grace the occasion. Among them will be 40 leading airlines, 50 airports, and 15 tourism authorities, reflecting the broad spectrum of interests invested in the development of Africa’s aviation landscape.
Notable attendees include Africa’s prominent carriers such as Kenya Airways, South African Airways, and Ethiopian Airlines, alongside global giants like Emirates, Etihad Airways, British Airways, and Iberia Airlines. The presence of these industry heavyweights underscores the significance of Africa as a burgeoning market for air travel.
However, the spotlight will also shine on the rising influence of low-cost carriers, which are increasingly reshaping the dynamics of aviation in Africa. Fastjet, Comair, Fly540, and the emerging FlyAfrica.com are among those poised to make their mark at the event, signaling a shift towards more accessible and affordable air travel options across the continent.
Reflecting on the pivotal role of aviation in driving tourism, Engineer Walter Mzembi (MP), Zimbabwe’s Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, emphasised the critical need for enhanced air connectivity to unlock Africa’s vast potential in the global tourism market. His sentiments were echoed by Karikoga Kaseke, Chief Executive of the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, who stressed the importance of partnerships between tourism boards and the aviation industry to overcome accessibility challenges.
Katie Bland, Director of Routes at UBM Live, underscored Africa’s status as a dynamic and promising aviation market. With African airlines gaining strength and global carriers increasingly eyeing opportunities on the continent, the decisions made at Routes Africa are poised to shape the trajectory of African aviation for years to come.
A highlight of the event will be the Routes Africa Strategy Summit, spanning two days and featuring an illustrious lineup of speakers. From high-ranking government officials to industry leaders, attendees will engage in insightful discussions aimed at charting a course for the future of aviation across Africa.
As Victoria Falls prepares to welcome delegates from around the globe, the stage is set for Routes Africa 2014 to serve as a catalyst for transformative dialogue and collaborative efforts geared towards unlocking Africa’s aviation potential.