Following
the conclusion of the 69th IATA AGM, the International Bureau of
Aviation, IBA Group, an organization established in 1988 to provide
independent expert business analysis and advice to the aviation
industry, says it will be looking closely at the developing
opportunities arising from the exponential growth and profit reported
within the African aviation industry.
With
Africa's population set to double by 2036, aircraft manufacturers have
highlighted the continent as a key growth market, thanks to deregulation
in the aviation industry, economic and demographic growth, along with
an increase in inter-regional trade.
Whilst
aviation is now forming an essential part of the Continent’s
development, IBA Group insists careful consideration must be given to
its fundamental infrastructure. Phil Seymour, IBA’s president and COO
comments:
“The investment opportunities and anticipated growth expected from African aviation must not overlook imperative infrastructure improvements which need to take place. Airports, air traffic control and the regulatory authorities of existing and developing airlines will need to improve to international standards in order to compete successfully.”
The
prospects for air transport to drive economic and social development in
Africa will need to strike a fine balance between the available
opportunities and their associated challenges. Recent developing
ventures have struggled to overcome a range of impediments allied with
the complex legal and political issues which plague much of Africa.
“Virgin Nigeria and Fastjet’s African plans have both faltered due to the intricate and widespread governmental disputes; Africa has the potential to emerge as a global economic power, but will need to harness the opportunities in order to capitalise on this industrialisation,” said Seymour.
The
high-cost operating environment means the African airlines are
prevented from forging the important role aviation connectivity and
economic growth could play throughout Africa. Fuel costs are frequently
20% more expensive in Africa than the global average, whilst taxation
charges make connecting travel onerous to the consumer.
According to the IBA, there are currently 1'014 Western built commercial aircraft currently in operation in Africa amongst 187 operators. Boeing has recently forecast that Africa will require 900 new aircraft over the next 20 years. Using these aircraft, aviation will enable global connectivity, in turn integrating the 54 national economies of Africa to the rest of the world.
Fundamental to the growth of African aviation is the commitment of governments to actively solve corruption on a national scale, combined with effective harnessing of investment opportunities, allowing airlines to follow the solid reputation of South African Airways(SA), Ethiopian Airlines (ET) and Kenya Airways (KQ).
In conclusion, Seymour said:
“Until more African countries embrace the ICAO airworthiness standards and invest in the best quality advisors, the growth forecasts will not be met. Whilst new aircraft are efficient, they also tie up hard to find capital, reducing profit required for growth. Africa needs investment in the simple things, such as experienced pilots and technicians as well as the structural and more expensive investments in airport and air traffic control systems.”
