IATA Calls for Lower Costs, Better Regulation to Boost Africa’s Aviation Growth
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called on African governments to treat aviation as a strategic pillar of long-term economic growth, warning that high costs, regulatory inefficiencies, and policy gaps continue to limit the sector’s potential.
Speaking at the IATA Focus Africa Conference 2026 in Addis Ababa, Kamil Alawadhi emphasized aviation’s broader economic role.
“Aviation is economic infrastructure for Africa. Its value lies in the long-term benefits it delivers. A strategy focused on safety, cost-competitiveness, sustainability, and ease of doing business will create jobs, enable trade, support tourism, and strengthen regional integration,” he said.
Safety Improvements but Gaps Remain
IATA acknowledged progress in aviation safety across Africa, noting that the accident rate improved from 12.13 to 7.86 per million flight sectors between 2024 and 2025. However, this remains significantly higher than the global average of 1.32.
The association urged stronger implementation of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, improved transparency in accident reporting, and wider adoption of global safety audit programs.
High Costs Weigh on Competitiveness
Cost competitiveness remains a major challenge. IATA reported that aviation-related taxes and charges in Africa are around 15% higher than the global average.
The association highlighted rising API-PNR fees, pointing to Tanzania’s $45 one-way charge as the highest globally.
It also called for implementation of a December 2025 Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) decision to eliminate aviation taxes and reduce selected charges by 25%.
IATA further cautioned against proposed source-based taxation models under discussion at the United Nations, arguing that the global nature of aviation makes residence-based taxation more efficient and equitable.
Blocked Funds and Visa Barriers
Barriers to doing business continue to hinder the sector, particularly the issue of blocked airline revenues. As of March 2026, $774 million in airline funds remained trapped in African markets, with Algeria accounting for the largest share at $258 million.
Alawadhi stressed the need for urgent government action, warning that delays in releasing funds could undermine airline operations and connectivity.
Visa restrictions also remain a significant obstacle, with nearly half of intra-African routes still requiring pre-departure visas, limiting tourism and regional mobility.
Opportunities in Sustainability
IATA highlighted Africa’s strong potential in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production and carbon markets.
The continent could supply up to 106 million tonnes of SAF feedstock by 2050 and benefit from mechanisms such as the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA).
However, only a limited number of countries have taken initial steps to develop these opportunities.
Unlocking Aviation’s Growth Potential
IATA concluded that coordinated policy reforms, infrastructure investment, and alignment with global aviation frameworks will be critical to unlocking the sector’s full economic potential.
With the right strategy, aviation could play a transformative role in driving trade, tourism, and regional integration across Africa.
