From Cyriacus Nnaji, Lagos
The African Airlines Association (AFRAA) has concluded its 56th Annual General Assembly (AGA) in Cairo – Egypt.
Graciously hosted by EgyptAir, the event was held under the High Patronage of the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt and officiated by the Honourable Minister of Civil Aviation of the Arab Republic of Egypt – H.E. Dr. Sameh Ahmed El Hefny, representing the Government.
In a release, the Assembly, which brought together over 600 delegates from 60 countries under the theme “Transform and Develop the Airline Industry in Africa”, was a melting pot of deliberations on deliberate actions, progress on best practices for African airlines and air transport stakeholders on strategies that will transform and develop the airline industry in Africa to realise its potential. Among others, the Assembly recommendations were made on the following key areas: Aircraft Financing in Africa, What does a sustainable African airline look like? How do we get there? How to transform African hubs through investment, innovation and enhanced connectivity? Revenue management industry trends and best practices; what is the pathway to Net-Zero by 2050 look like for African airlines? How the aviation industry can accelerate the journey to SAF adoption and meet growing demand to be on track for 2050 targets; progress, milestones and engagement strategies for gender diversity for the aviation industry, and how African airlines can transform and develop in an era of industry shifts, geopolitical changes, sustainability demands, technological advancements, artificial intelligence and new innovations.
In his welcome address, Eng. Yehia Zakaria – Chairman of EgyptAir Holding Company and 2024 President of AFRAA, noted that the aviation industry finds itself at a crossroads. He stated: “The challenges we have faced in recent years—whether due to global economic shifts, the impact of the pandemic, or rising fuel costs—have tested our resilience. Yet, these challenges have also provided us with unique opportunities to innovate, collaborate, and grow.”
He further elaborated on Egypt’s strategic alignment to support the development of aviation. “Our country has made significant investments in infrastructure, modernizing airports and expanding air traffic management systems. In 2023 alone, Cairo International Airport experienced a 31% increase in passenger traffic, reflecting the growing demand for air travel in the region.” he added.
Eng. Zakaria urged African airlines to focus on collaboration and prioritise sustainability. “Strengthening our partnerships is essential. By working together, sharing resources, and aligning our strategies, we can enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and expand our networks. Moreover, we must prioritize sustainability. The aviation industry plays a vital role in addressing climate change. Together, we can set an example for future generations, ensuring that air travel remains viable for years to come.” he said.
Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé, AFRAA Secretary General noted that in 2024, African aviation continued its journey of recovery and growth, demonstrating remarkable resilience amid global challenges. He stated that the industry has not only recovered from the disruptions caused by the pandemic but has also shown significant growth, with many African airlines surpassing pre-pandemic operating levels. “This resilience is evidence of our industry’s strength and adaptability and should reassure us all about its future.”
He highlighted progress and AFRAA’s contribution to actions on the following pillars: Enhancing Connectivity – Regional Integration and SAATM; Sustainability – Africa’s Commitment to a Greener Future; Infrastructure Development – Building for the Future and Collaboration – Strengthening Partnerships for Progress
Looking forward on the road ahead filled with opportunities and challenges, Mr Berthé stated: “In the coming years, we will need to focus on critical areas such as increasing the efficiency of our operations, developing a more resilient and diversified aviation ecosystem, and continuing our work toward a more sustainable industry.”
“Our vision, leadership, and collaboration will make Africa’s air transport successful. Together, we will overcome challenges and lay a solid foundation for remarkable future achievements.” Mr. Berthé concluded.
However, the 56th AFRAA AGA elected Kenya Airways as the Chairman of the Executive Committee while LAM Mozambique was elected as first Vice Chairman and Tunisair as second Vice Chairman. The AFRAA Executive Committee has oversight responsibility for the Association.
The 56th AFRAA AGA elected TAAG Angola as the President of the Association. TAAG Angola will host the 57th AGA in Luanda – Angola from 30 November – 02 December 2025.
As part of the pre-AGA activities, AFRAA staged the second edition of the AFRAA CEOs retreat on 17 November 2024. The CEOs retreat is an initiative by the AFRAA Executive Committee to bring together member airline Leadership Teams to brainstorm on the Association’s priorities, work plan, projects and specific dynamics of the air transport industry that will enhance the Association to play its critical role in the industry. The CEOs retreat made recommendations for AFRAA’s 2026-2030 Strategic plan for a stronger Association to champion the development of the airline industry in Africa.
The Association welcomed the following new Members that joined in 2024: Z. Boskovic Air Charters Ltd – Associate Membership; Berniq Airways May – Associate Membership; Skyward Express -Associate Membership and ECAir – Associate Membership.
New partners include Aviation Co-ordination Services (Pty) Ltd (ACS) – Associate Partnership; VISA – Full Partnership; Knighthood Global Limited – Full Partnership; and AI12 Partnership Application – Full Partnership
The 56th Annual General Assembly & Summit recognised by way of awards the outstanding performance of airlines, excellence in service delivery, innovation and competitiveness in airlines, individuals and service providers in the African aviation industry. The following awards were conferred: “Service Provider of the Year Award” to the Government of Angola and the Government of Egypt. The “Service Provider of the Year Awards” category recognized the 2 African Governments for the tremendous support to the air transport sector in infrastructure development, support to air transport sector and market liberalisation.
“Service Provider of the Year Award” as follows:
Ø Airline of the Year – Global Operations: Ethiopian Airlines (highest net profit for 2023)
Ø Airline of the Year – Best improved results in terms of profit ratio: Kenya Airways (highest improvement in profit ratio for 2023)
Ø Airline of the Year – Best improved in intra-Africa connectivity: Eswatini Air (most number of new intra-Africa routes launched in 2023)
