IATA Outlines Priorities to Strengthen Aviation’s Contribution to African Growth

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) urged African governments to focus on aviation as a major boost for economic growth, job opportunities, better connections, and social development. They suggested doing this by enhancing safety, cutting costs, and resolving issues with airline funds being blocked.

"Africa’s aviation sector is a vital economic driver, contributing USD 75 billion to GDP and supporting 8.1 million jobs. The continent’s aviation market is projected to grow at 4.1% over the next 20 years, doubling by 2044. More important than the growth of the sector is the impact that a successful aviation industry has on social and economic development. As governments prioritise how to deliver their agendas with limited resources, it is critical to recognise that supporting aviation underpins jobs, trade, and tourism,” said Somas Appavou, IATA’s Regional Director External Affairs, Africa.

IATA outlined three key priorities for African governments:

1. Improve aviation safety

Getting global standards in place is crucial for top-notch safety. Even though safety in Africa has gotten better, it's still behind the global average when it comes to following ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPS). Right now, the average effective implementation rate for ICAO SARPS is 59.49% in 46 out of 48 Sub-Saharan African countries, which is below the global average of 69.16% and the global target of 75%. It's time for these countries to step up and close this gap.

In 2024, runway excursions were the most common type of accident among Africa's 10 reported incidents. IATA is urging for a renewed push with ICAO’s Runway Safety Team missions at airports to boost performance, especially by making sure ICAO SARPS are effectively implemented.

IATA is also asking African countries to follow the ICAO Annexe 13 global standard to deliver accident reports on time. Out of the 42 accidents in Africa from 2018 to 2023, only eight have had a final report published. The IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) and the IATA Standard Safety Assessment (ISSA) are great tools to improve airline safety, support proper regulatory oversight, and encourage a consistent, risk-based approach to operational safety.

2. Reduce taxes and charges

Air travel taxes and fees in Africa are 15% higher than the global average.

Governments need to realise that aviation's biggest benefit to the economy is how it kick-starts other activities. Flying people and goods around helps create jobs. But if you slap on too many taxes, it kills demand and slows down economic and social progress.

When fees are used to fund important aviation infrastructure, the industry and government must work together. The goal should be to develop infrastructure that supports growth, is cost-effective, and can expand as needed.

3. Eliminating Blocked Funds

Airlines can't keep running in a market if they can't get their earnings out, which is something guaranteed by international treaties and agreements. As of May 2025, African governments are holding back $1 billion of airline revenues—making up 73% of all blocked funds worldwide—which is a big problem for keeping Africa connected internationally. These blocked funds are spread out over 26 African countries.

When airlines can't access their funds, they often cut down on flights or stop routes altogether. To ensure aviation brings economic and social benefits, governments need to stick to their international promises and clear the way for airlines to get their money.

“These challenges are not new, but solving them is urgent. That’s why IATA launched the Focus Africa initiative in 2023, working hand-in-hand with governments, industry, and development partners to deliver real improvements in safety, affordability, and connectivity. Aviation is not a luxury. It is an economic and social lifeline. Focus Africa is about turning potential into jobs, growth and prosperity,” said Appavou.

CORSIA, short for the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation, is a key part of the aviation industry's goal to reach net-zero emissions. Right now, it's in the middle of its first voluntary reporting phase, which runs from 2024 to 2026. Starting in 2027, reporting will be mandatory. By 2025, 129 countries, including 20 from Africa, are on board with CORSIA.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is encouraging African governments to back CORSIA. It's the only globally agreed system for tackling CO2 emissions in international aviation. They want to avoid a mix of national or regional taxes that could lead to a confusing and inefficient global policy, which would ultimately weaken the scheme.

African countries should focus on providing CORSIA Eligible Emissions Units (EEUs) to airlines. This will not only help meet their international commitments under CORSIA but also bring in revenue from carbon markets. This approach supports development, creates jobs, and attracts climate investment.