IATA Urges Action to Strengthen Aviation’s Role in Africa’s Economic Development
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called on African governments to recognise aviation as a driver of economic activity, job creation, and connectivity. The association highlighted the need to improve safety standards, reduce travel-related costs, and resolve the issue of blocked airline revenues across the continent.
“Africa’s aviation sector supports USD 75 billion in GDP and 8.1 million jobs. With the market expected to grow at 4.1% annually, doubling by 2044, it’s important that aviation is prioritised as a key enabler of broader economic and social development,” said Somas Appavou, IATA’s Regional Director for External Affairs, Africa.
IATA’s Key Priorities for African Aviation:
1. Enhance Aviation Safety
Although safety performance in Africa has seen progress, it continues to trail global benchmarks. The average implementation rate of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) across 46 Sub-Saharan African states is 59.49%, below the global average of 69.16% and the target of 75%.
In 2024, runway excursions accounted for the majority of the region’s 10 reported accidents. IATA recommends increased adoption of ICAO’s Runway Safety Team missions and more consistent implementation of SARPs.
Additionally, IATA urged states to comply with ICAO Annexe 13 for timely accident reporting. Between 2018 and 2023, only 8 out of 42 accidents in Africa had final reports published. Tools like the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) and IATA Standard Safety Assessment (ISSA) can help regulators and operators enhance safety oversight.
2. Reduce Taxes and Charges
Air travel in Africa is subject to taxes and charges that are, on average, 15% higher than global norms. Excessive costs can limit travel demand, hinder economic activity, and reduce the wider benefits aviation brings to employment and tourism.
IATA encourages governments to engage with the industry when planning aviation infrastructure projects, ensuring investments are cost-effective and aligned with demand.
3. Resolve Blocked Funds
As of May 2025, $1 billion in airline funds remain blocked in 26 African countries, accounting for 73% of all blocked airline revenues globally. IATA warns that unresolved issues with repatriation may result in reduced air service levels, affecting regional and international connectivity.
IATA urged governments to meet their treaty obligations and facilitate the free flow of airline revenues to ensure sustainable operations.
“These are longstanding issues, but they require urgent action. The Focus Africa initiative, launched in 2023, aims to work collaboratively with governments and partners to deliver practical improvements in safety, affordability, and connectivity,” added Appavou.
“Aviation should be viewed not as a luxury but as an essential service supporting economic activity and regional integration.”
CORSIA and Climate Responsibility
IATA also highlighted the importance of supporting CORSIA (Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation), the only global mechanism for addressing aviation-related CO2 emissions. As of 2025, 129 countries, including 20 in Africa, are participating.
IATA recommends that African governments:
Avoid fragmented national or regional carbon taxes
Ensure the availability of Eligible Emissions Units (EEUs) for airlines
Leverage carbon markets to attract climate investment and support sustainable development
By focusing on these areas, African governments can help strengthen aviation’s role in supporting trade, tourism, and development across the continent.
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