AFRICA – Allan Kilavuka, the CEO of Kenya Airways, has taken on the role of Chairperson of the African Airlines Association (AFRAA), a position that emphasizes the significance of Africa’s aviation industry in 2024.
Allan Kilavuka was formally appointed as AFRAA Chairperson during the organization’s Annual General Assembly and Summit held in Cairo. His tenure is set for one year, with the option of extension.
The role entails steering AFRAA’s strategic focus, advocating for policies to strengthen the continent’s airlines, and fostering the growth and sustainability of the aviation sector.
“I am honored to serve as AFRAA’s Chairperson. Together, we will work towards improving connectivity and fostering cooperation among African carriers,” Kilavuka stated during his acceptance speech.
Kilavuka succeeds João Carlos Pó Jorge, the CEO of LAM Mozambique, who led the association for two years. Under Jorge’s leadership, AFRAA navigated a challenging post-pandemic landscape, and Kilavuka aims to build on this progress.
Founded in 1968, AFRAA includes over 40 member airlines, which together account for more than 85% of air transport across the continent.
Africa’s aviation sector is experiencing substantial recovery and expansion in 2024, reflecting its vital role in boosting the continent’s tourism and trade. Passenger traffic has bounced back to 93% of 2019 levels, with international travel leading this resurgence.
The recovery of air cargo—up by 31.4% compared to pre-pandemic figures—further highlights the sector’s contribution to economic growth.
The tourism sector has reaped the benefits, with airlines adding new routes and increasing flight frequencies to key destinations. “We are focused on improving accessibility to African markets, which is critical for tourism and trade,” Kilavuka emphasized.
To accommodate growing demand, significant airport infrastructure upgrades are underway. These include expansions and modernization efforts that aim to boost connectivity and ensure smooth travel experiences.
Additionally, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Agreement is playing a pivotal role in reshaping the aviation industry.
Its liberalization framework is helping to create a more integrated market, reduce operational costs, and enhance competitiveness for African carriers.
Kilavuka’s leadership comes at a transformative time, as the industry aligns itself with a vision of a more interconnected continent.
With a commitment to collaboration and innovation, his appointment is widely regarded as a positive step toward the continued development of African aviation.
AFRAA’s goals remain ambitious but achievable under Kilavuka’s stewardship. “This is a time for action and progress. We must work collectively to address challenges and seize opportunities for African aviation,” he remarked.
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