Addis Ababa to host Global Airlines’ Group Focus on Africa Meeting
The International Air Transport Association (IATA), a global airlines group, is set to hold a meeting in Addis Ababa next month.
The conference will focus on strengthening Africa’s aviation sector, says IATA, which represents some 300 airlines comprising 83% of global air traffic.
IATA says the Conference will delve into six priorities under IATA’s Focus Africa initiative to strengthen aviation’s contribution to the continent’s economic and social development and improve connectivity, safety and reliability for passengers and shippers.
Over the next 15 years, Africa’s passenger traffic is expected to double.
“The continent stands out as the region with the greatest potential and opportunity for aviation,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
“But this potential is limited by infrastructure constraints, high costs, lack of connectivity, regulatory impediments, slow adoption of global standards and skills shortages, among other factors. “The Focus Africa Conference will bring together the continent’s key stakeholders to address these challenges,” said Walsh.
Ethiopian Airlines will host the two-day conference, beginning June 20.
Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, said he was “delighted” to host IATA’s Focus Africa Conference and “welcome the aviation industry to our home, Addis Ababa.”
“Advancing the air transport industry is critical for Africa’s economic growth. The conference will allow industry leaders to join forces and drive the Focus Africa initiative,” said Mesfin.
Officials from the Global and regional aviation leading institutions and agencies are expected to attend the conference. Session tracks will address Safety, Aeronautical information management, Intra-African connectivity, airport infrastructure, biometrics and security, modern airline retailing, sustainability, and skilled workforce.