At the recent Land-Linked Zambia Summit, aviation industry stakeholders—including representatives from the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA), the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, Proflight Zambia, and other contributors—engaged in a panel discussion on Zambia’s ambitious plan to transform its aviation sector into a competitive hub within Africa.
The concept of aviation hubs is gaining momentum across the continent, as African airlines expand their networks to drive connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
Advocates argue that a strong hub can attract more passenger flows, facilitate trade, and boost tourism.
“Proflight Zambia continues to keenly promote Zambia as a hub with the network we currently have and are still developing,” said Vincent Banda, Proflight Zambia’s Director of Ground Operations, Cargo, and Catering.
While major hubs such as OR Tambo International in South Africa, Bole International in Ethiopia, Jomo Kenyatta International in Kenya, and Kigali International in Rwanda dominate the African aviation landscape, Zambia is strategically positioning itself by leveraging its central location and driving reforms and investments across its transport sector.
Reducing operating costs and easing regulatory burdens are central to this strategy. Banda pointed to high operating costs—particularly excessive airport taxes and handling fees—as major challenges.
“The ticket taxes and handling costs are very high in our region. We need a review to make our local airlines competitive,” he explained.
Other hurdles identified at the summit include inflexible regulatory frameworks. Industry participants noted that Zambia’s airports rely heavily on aeronautical revenue, accounting for 87% of income, whereas global best practices recommend that at least 40% come from non-aeronautical sources. This imbalance forces airlines to pass high costs onto consumers.
Safety and security were also highlighted as critical factors in building investor and consumer confidence.
Following the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Safety Audit, the ZCAA achieved a 72.94% effective implementation rating—well above the regional average.
With preparations underway for an upcoming security audit, experts believe Zambia’s improved safety record will further strengthen its international appeal.
Government support remains pivotal. The Ministry of Transport and Logistics, together with industry leaders and the ZCAA, is exploring initiatives such as reviewing taxes, reforming regulations, and reducing aviation fuel prices.
Discussions with the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) are ongoing to address the high cost of fuel. Additionally, there is a concerted effort to align national policies with the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to facilitate greater air transport liberalisation across Africa.
The Land-Linked Zambia Summit served as an important platform to unite stakeholders, address challenges, and identify opportunities within the aviation sector.
By fostering open dialogue among private and public sector leaders, the summit underscored a shared commitment to removing operational barriers and capitalising on the growing African aviation market.
While significant challenges remain, Zambia’s proactive approach to addressing high operating costs, regulatory obstacles, and safety standards signals a promising future.
Stakeholders are now calling for swift and comprehensive policy reforms to empower local carriers, revitalise the sector, and position Zambia as a dynamic aviation hub within the region.
