IATA Highlights Key Priorities to Unlock Africa’s Aviation Potential for Trade and Tourism

African governments need to focus their attention on aviation safety and the elimination of blocked funds to fully feel the benefits of aviation as a catalyst for trade, tourism and job creation. This is according to a news brief released by IATA outlining key priorities for strengthening the continent’s air transport industry.

"Africa’s aviation sector is a vital economic driver, contributing US$75 billion (R1,4 trillion) 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,” said Somas Appavou, IATA’s Regional Director External Affairs for Africa.

Improve aviation safety

While safety in African aviation has improved, IATA notes that the continent’s safety rate lags the global average implementation of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPS).

Across 46 of 48 sub-Saharan African states, the average affective implementation of ICAO SARPS is 59,49%, which is 9,67% behind the global average.

IATA found that, in 2024, runway excursions were the most prevalent among Africa’s 10 reported accidents and called for airports to improve performance in this area. Another area that needs attention is the delivery of timely accident reports. Of the 42 accidents occurring in Africa between 2018 and 2023, only eight saw the publication of a final report.

Eliminating blocked funds

As of May 2025, Africa still dominates the global share of blocked funds. IATA warned that this discourages foreign airlines from expanding their operations on the continent.

A total of US$1 billion (R18bn) of airline revenue is being blocked from repatriation by 26 African governments, amounting to 73% of total global blocked funds.

“Airlines facing blocked funds often reduce flight frequencies or suspend routes. To facilitate aviation’s economic and social benefits, governments need to live up to their international obligation and remove all barriers to airline revenue repatriation,” said IATA.