African governments face urgent calls from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to treat aviation growth, safety, and revenue repatriation as top priorities. In late July and early August 2025, IATA held a high-level virtual conference, warning that without immediate reforms, the continent risks losing out on billions in economic benefits and millions of jobs.
IATA’s Regional Director for Africa, Somas Appavou, stressed that aviation supports $75 billion in GDP and 8.1 million jobs across Africa. The sector is expected to grow by 4.1% each year until 2044, but only if governments act now to address key challenges. “Aviation is not just a source of tax revenue—it’s a catalyst for economic development,” Appavou said during the conference.
Safety Concerns and International Standards
One of IATA’s main concerns is aviation safety. As of August 2025, Sub-Saharan Africa has implemented only 59.5% of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs), compared to a global average of 69.2%. The target is 75%. In 2024, there were 10 runway excursions, but only 8 out of 42 accident reports were published in the last five years.
IATA urges African governments to fully adopt ICAO SARPs and to publish accident reports on time. The association also recommends that airlines undergo IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) and ISSA (IATA Standard Safety Assessment) audits. These steps help improve safety and build trust with international partners. “Without strong safety standards, Africa’s aviation sector will struggle to attract investment and passengers,” Appavou warned.
High Taxes and Charges Threaten Growth
Taxes and fees on air travel in Africa are 15% higher than the global average. IATA says these high costs discourage people from flying and make it harder for airlines to invest and grow. The association calls for governments to review and lower these charges, making sure they match industry needs and support cost-efficient infrastructure.
Excessive taxation, IATA argues, “kills long-term growth” and blocks the positive effects aviation can have on trade and tourism. Instead of focusing on short-term revenue, governments are encouraged to work closely with airlines and industry groups. This cooperation can help ensure that new infrastructure projects are affordable and truly support aviation growth, rather than just generating income for the state.
Revenue Repatriation: The $1 Billion Problem
A major issue facing airlines in Africa is blocked funds. As of May 2025, $1 billion in airline revenues are trapped in 26 African countries. This represents 73% of all blocked airline funds worldwide. When airlines can’t move their money out of a country, they often reduce flights or leave the market entirely. This hurts connectivity, tourism, and economic growth.
IATA says blocking funds violates international treaties and bilateral agreements. The association demands that governments remove barriers to revenue repatriation and set up clear, predictable processes for currency conversion and transfers. “If this problem isn’t fixed soon, more airlines will cut service, and Africa’s links to the world will suffer,” Appavou stated.
Recent Policy Changes and Ongoing Advocacy
While no major continent-wide reforms have been made as of August 2025, IATA’s efforts have led to more talks with several African governments. Some countries are reviewing their tax and revenue repatriation policies, but the $1 billion in blocked funds remains a serious problem. On a positive note, 20 African countries have joined the CORSIA carbon offsetting scheme ahead of its mandatory start in 2027, showing some progress on environmental issues.
Stakeholder Perspectives
- IATA and Industry Experts: They see aviation as a key driver of economic growth, not just a source of government income. They argue that better policies will help Africa compete globally.
- African Governments: Some are open to reform, but many still focus on collecting taxes and holding onto airline funds for short-term gains.
- Airlines: Many face tough choices. Some have already reduced flights or left certain markets because of high costs and blocked funds.
- Tourism and Trade Groups: These organizations support IATA’s position, warning that current policies make Africa less attractive for business and travel.
Practical Steps for Governments
IATA offers clear steps for African governments to improve the situation:
- Safety
- Fully implement ICAO SARPs and join ICAO safety missions.
- Require IOSA/ISSA audits for all national airlines.
- Publish accident reports within ICAO’s recommended timelines.
- Taxes and Charges
- Review and adjust aviation taxes and fees to match global standards.
- Talk with airlines and industry groups before introducing new charges.
- Invest in infrastructure that supports growth, not just revenue collection.
- Revenue Repatriation
- Remove currency controls and other barriers to airline fund transfers.
- Respect international aviation agreements.
- Create clear, reliable processes for currency exchange and remittance.
What Happens If Nothing Changes?
If governments do not act, airlines may continue to cut flights or leave African markets. This will reduce travel options, hurt tourism, and slow down trade. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the long-term effects could be even worse: Africa could miss out on the chance to double its aviation market by 2044, losing billions in potential GDP and millions of jobs.
On the other hand, if governments follow IATA’s recommendations, Africa’s aviation sector could become a major engine for economic growth. More flights would mean better connections for people and businesses, more tourists, and more jobs.
Looking Ahead
IATA plans to keep pushing for change, with more high-level meetings set for late 2025. The association will continue to work with governments, airlines, and other partners to solve these problems. The hope is that by working together, Africa can unlock the full potential of its aviation sector.
Where to Find More Information
For those interested in learning more about these issues or getting involved, IATA’s Africa website provides updates, policy papers, and contact details for regional representatives. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) also offers resources on safety standards and international agreements.
Key Takeaways for Stakeholders
- Airlines: Should prepare for possible changes in taxes, fees, and safety requirements. They should also keep records of blocked funds and work with industry groups to push for reforms.
- Governments: Need to balance short-term revenue needs with long-term economic growth. By making it easier for airlines to operate and move their money, they can attract more investment and jobs.
- Travelers and Businesses: May see more flight options and lower prices if reforms are made. If not, they could face fewer choices and higher costs.
By focusing on aviation growth, safety, and revenue repatriation, African governments can help build a stronger, more connected continent. The next few years will be critical in deciding whether Africa’s aviation sector reaches its full potential or falls behind.
This Article in a Nutshell
